Lions and Dan Campbell Criticized for ‘Ill-Advised’ Decision
The Detroit Lions made a bold move during the offseason that has sparked some backlash, particularly regarding the release of a key player.
Dan Campbell, Brad Holmes, and the front office of the Detroit Lions have been working tirelessly to retool the team for a competitive 2025 season. However, this process has been challenging, especially after the team experienced a number of coaching and player departures following their loss to Washington. Some tough choices have been made, and one of them may end up hurting the team in the long run.
Lions Face Criticism for Letting Star Player Go
In the offseason, the Detroit Lions parted ways with Za’Darius Smith. Although the decision was understandable given his contract structure, which would have made it financially burdensome to keep him, the move has left the team with a hole to fill. By releasing Smith, the Lions freed up $5.7 million in cap space, which they hope to utilize effectively.
However, NFL analyst Brad Berreman of SideLion Report is questioning the Lions’ strategy. In a piece published on March 24, Berreman argues that the team’s edge rusher situation looks problematic. He points out that re-signing Marcus Davenport, while a notable move, might not be enough to address the void left by Smith. Berreman suggests that the Lions’ apparent faith in a deep edge rusher draft class may not be the right path. He believes that if it had come down to a choice between Smith and Davenport, the Lions may have made the wrong decision.
Could Za’Darius Smith Return to Detroit?
Despite being released, Smith remains a free agent, and there’s still a possibility that the Lions could re-sign him. However, Berreman points out that it’s unlikely if the reason for his release was a request to take a pay cut. If Smith doesn’t find the deal he’s looking for elsewhere, though, the door could still be open for a return to Detroit.
Smith, who has been with several teams in recent years, could find himself with a sixth team in his 11th NFL season. As of March 22, Smith’s career journey has seen him play for the Packers, Vikings, and Lions, with his future still uncertain.
Lions fans are now left wondering whether the team will make a move to bolster its defensive line and bring in a proven edge rusher or if they are simply uncertain about their next step. Berreman further critiques the team’s decision, suggesting that they are waiting too long to address the issue. He concludes that time will tell whether the Lions’ plan will pay off or if letting Smith go was a mistake.
