The Detroit Lions entered last season with championship ambitions, making bold roster moves in pursuit of a Super Bowl run. Head coach Dan Campbell and the front office brought in impactful players—including veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith, who joined the team midseason. Over eight appearances (starting seven), Smith logged 4 sacks, 10 quarterback hits, 12 total tackles (seven solo), and a defended pass, showcasing his experience and defensive prowess.
Despite his contributions, the Lions were unable to retain him due to salary cap constraints, allowing the accomplished defender to enter free agency once again.
During the offseason, Smith has been spending time with his family, recently sharing Easter moments on Instagram. One particular photo stood out—Smith sporting a Lions jersey while enjoying time with his children. While he remains unsigned, that subtle nod to Detroit stirred speculation among fans: could he be hinting at a potential return?
Throughout his decade-long NFL career, Smith has played in 140 games (96 starts), recording 333 tackles (220 solo), 69 sacks, 173 QB hits, and 10 passes defensed. In his short stint with Detroit last season, he earned just $605,000, despite initially agreeing to a $1.5 million deal. Had he remained on the roster into the third day of the 2025 league year, he would’ve been in line for nearly $9 million.
With no current deal in place, some speculate he might return to his original team—the Baltimore Ravens—who selected him in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft. Though rumors swirled in March, talk of a reunion with the Ravens has quieted in recent weeks.
With the NFL Draft only days away, Lions GM Brad Holmes is finalizing his plans to build a roster capable of withstanding postseason pressure. Still, one question lingers: should Detroit reunite with Smith?
Holmes admitted during the recent league meeting that conversations had taken place with Smith’s agent but clarified that no final decision had been made. The situation grew more complex earlier this year when Detroit reportedly asked Smith to accept a reduced salary—an offer he declined.
Now a free agent, Smith remains one of the most effective pass rushers available. According to Pro Football Focus, he ranked among the top 10 defensive ends in total pressures last season, proving he still has plenty left in the tank.
Campbell and the Lions are in a tight spot. They need veteran leadership on the edge, and Smith has publicly shown interest in staying. Re-signing him before the draft could ease pressure and provide flexibility when selecting new talent. Even if they choose a younger player, developing him to NFL standards will take time—time Smith doesn’t need.
The opportunity is there. The desire appears mutual. Now it’s up to the Lions to decide whether to bring him back before it’s too late.
