Lions predicted to sign $23M veteran Za’Darius Smith’s with 69 sacks to pair with Michigan legend Aidan Hutchinson

After a heartbreaking end to their playoff run last season, the Detroit Lions have their sights set on a Super Bowl appearance in the upcoming campaign. One key difference this year is the return of star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, who missed time due to injury but is now expected to start the season fully recovered.

Despite undergoing offseason rehab for an ACL injury, Hutchinson remains optimistic about his progress. “I’m right where I need to be,” he told CBS Sports’ Ryan Wilson. “Every season, I feel like I grow physically and mentally. Even with the rehab, I think I’ve hit my stride heading into Year 4.”

However, Detroit’s defense took a major blow when head coach Dan Campbell announced that defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike suffered a torn ACL and will likely miss the entire 2025-26 season. The injury was described as “significant,” and Onwuzurike has already had surgery.

In light of that setback, NFL analyst Kristopher Knox suggests the Lions revisit a familiar option—bringing back veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith. Though the team let him walk earlier this offseason, Smith’s experience and production (69 career sacks) could be just what Detroit needs.

The Lions made minimal moves to reinforce their defensive front aside from re-signing Marcus Davenport. With limited alternatives available this late in the offseason, Knox believes Smith would be the ideal complement to Hutchinson unless Detroit manages to land someone like Trey Hendrickson via trade.

Reuniting with Smith wouldn’t just add depth; it would bring back a veteran presence who already knows the team’s culture and scheme. With Onwuzurike sidelined, pairing Smith and Hutchinson could be a critical step in helping the Lions push deeper into the playoffs and chase a Super Bowl title.