The Detroit Lions made a surprising roster move by releasing undrafted rookie Nate Lynn ahead of Tuesday’s 53-man deadline, per Nolan Bianchi of The Detroit News. Lynn had been one of the more impressive young edge rushers in both training camp and preseason action, which makes the decision even more eye-opening given Detroit’s well-known need for depth at that position.
The timing of the move strongly suggests the Lions are clearing the way for a familiar face — veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith. Smith has remained unsigned throughout the summer, skipping both camp and preseason, but Detroit has consistently been linked to him after his strong showing with the team in 2024.
Alongside Lynn, defensive lineman Brodric Martin and tackle Dan Skipper were also let go, signaling that the front office is freeing up both roster spots and cap space for a significant addition. All signs point toward Smith.
While Lynn could have provided depth behind starters Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport, the rotation now leans heavily on Al-Quadin Muhammad and rookie Isaac Ukwu. Given Ukwu’s uneven summer, his spot doesn’t appear locked in either, which only strengthens the case for Smith’s return.
Negotiations between Detroit and Smith have played out publicly all offseason. Smith himself told USA Today during the BET Awards that he’d welcome another run with the Lions, while GM Brad Holmes has admitted to maintaining contact with the veteran edge.
Smith originally landed in Detroit via a trade with Cleveland last year and made an immediate impact while Hutchinson was sidelined. In eight games, he posted four sacks, 12 tackles, three stuffs, and a pass breakup — production that kept the Lions’ defensive front competitive despite key injuries.
It’s no secret the Lions are setting something up behind the scenes. With roster depth being trimmed and financial space opening, the path is clear for Smith to rejoin the team. Unless Detroit has a different surprise in mind, the 32-year-old pass rusher looks like the next move waiting to drop.
