Lions Fans Want Him Back—Could This Defender Rejoin the Team Soon?

Za’Darius Smith Still Waiting for a Deal

After joining the Lions during a stretch of defensive injuries in 2024, Za’Darius Smith quickly made an impression. In just eight appearances, he delivered four sacks, three tackles for loss, and 10 hits on opposing quarterbacks.

Despite his strong performance, Smith remains a free agent, and Detroit’s general manager Brad Holmes has been quiet about the chances of bringing him back. Even so, there are a few encouraging developments suggesting a reunion isn’t out of the question.

One such sign is the Lions’ recent addition of undrafted free agent wide receiver Jackson Meeks, a Syracuse product—and Smith’s nephew. It may just be coincidence, but keeping it in the family could work in Detroit’s favor.

According to The Athletic‘s Dane Brugler, Meeks was rated 48th among receivers in his 2025 scouting publication, The Beast. Brugler noted that Meeks, a former three-star high school recruit, originally committed to Georgia. After serving as a backup for three years and winning two national titles, he transferred to Syracuse under new head coach Fran Brown—once a Georgia staffer. With transfer quarterback Kyle McCord leading the offense, Meeks finished 2024 with over 1,000 receiving yards.

Why a Return Makes Sense

Aside from family ties to the team, Smith hasn’t strayed far from the Motor City. He’s been spotted around town during the offseason, including a public appearance with Detroit rapper Kash Doll—his current partner—at a Pistons game. That outing sparked speculation that Smith might be considering a comeback.

In a recent article from Detroit Jock City, writer Cem Yolbulan argued that Smith’s potential return became more likely following the draft, pointing out that Detroit still hasn’t filled a glaring hole at the EDGE position.

“While everyone agrees that the Lions need more help on the edge, they’ve yet to add a proven pass rusher,” Yolbulan observed. “Free agency didn’t offer many options without overpaying, and surprisingly, Detroit didn’t address the need early in the draft.”

Given Smith’s proven track record and availability, he remains one of the top defensive options left on the market. If the Lions want him back, they may need to act soon—before another team swoops in. The ball, as they say, is in Brad Holmes’ court.