The Detroit Lions’ offseason has been a rollercoaster ride for fans, who are eagerly awaiting a solution at the edge rusher position to complement star Aidan Hutchinson.
While the team’s moves so far have left many feeling underwhelmed, there remains a glimmer of hope that a trusted veteran could still join the roster—and it might be a familiar face.
The Lions’ decision to part ways with Za’Darius Smith earlier this offseason was a tough pill for fans to swallow. Smith, who joined the team midway through the 2024 season, quickly proved himself as a reliable counterpart to Hutchinson. However, general manager Brad Holmes recently hinted that a reunion might still be possible.
Speaking to the media, Holmes revealed that the team has stayed in contact with Smith’s agent, sparking speculation about a potential return.
“We would have loved to have been able to keep him. We just weren’t able to. But we’ve been keeping in touch with his agent and he understands that process. We’ll just see how it goes,” Holmes said, according to The Athletic’s Colton Pouncy.
Holmes also admitted that financial limitations were the main reason for Smith’s departure, stating that the team “couldn’t afford to keep him” at that time.
That was then, and this is now. Three weeks into free agency, Smith remains unsigned, and the Lions’ financial situation now looks promising.
According to Over The Cap, Detroit currently has $42.9 million in available cap space. With most of their immediate roster needs already addressed, the Lions have the flexibility to allocate a significant portion of that money toward securing a veteran edge rusher. And few options make as much sense as bringing back Smith.
During his brief stint with the Lions in 2024, Smith demonstrated his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. In just eight games, he recorded four sacks—second on the team—and ranked 10th among all edge rushers in the league with 63 total pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. His performance highlighted what the Lions have been missing since his departure: a dependable second option opposite Hutchinson.
Without Smith, the team’s depth at the position remains a major concern.
Now 32, Smith is widely considered the top edge rusher still available in free agency. His most recent contract, signed with the Cleveland Browns before his trade to Detroit, averaged $11.5 million per year. If the Lions can negotiate a deal in that range for the 2025 season, it would be a no-brainer. The cap space is available, the need is clear, and Smith’s familiarity with the team’s system only enhances his appeal.
The prospect of reuniting Smith and Hutchinson—the two best edge rushers on Detroit’s roster last season—could elevate the Lions’ defense to new heights in 2025. While Holmes’ comments suggest cautious optimism rather than a firm commitment, the ongoing talks with Smith’s agent offer hope to a fanbase yearning for positive news.
If the Lions manage to finalize a deal, it could turn an underwhelming offseason into a triumphant one. For now, all eyes are on Detroit to see if they can make it happen.
