The Detroit Lions will be one of the first teams to open up training camp this season, as they are playing in the 2025 Hall of Fame Game against the Los Angeles Chargers on July 31st.
The Lions made some additions to the team this offseason, but didn't do much along the edge. They drafted Tyleik Williams to bolster the interior, but they didn't do much to give Aidan Hutchinson help on the other side.
Defensive end Za'Darius Smith is still on the free agent market, and he should be invited to the Lions camp.
Lions Should Give Za’Darius Smith a Call
Smith was acquired via trade last season from the Cleveland Browns, joining the Lions for eight games. In those outings, he notched 12 total tackles, 10 QB hits, three TFLs, and four sacks.
Despite turning 33 years old in September, Smith still has juice off the edge and generates pressure on opposing quarterbacks in the backfield.
Last season, Smith had a 74.7 overall grade (33rd among 211 graded edge defenders) and a 76.5 pass rush grade (21st among 211 graded edge defenders) per PFF. He has logged at least a 75 pass rush grade on PFF in seven straight seasons.
Smith is a three-time Pro Bowler and a one-time Second-Team All-Pro (2020). Even if he's not the same caliber of player at this point in his career, he is someone who would be a nice addition at this point in the offseason.
He's made it known that he would like to head back to Detroit, saying, "Hopefully, I can get back to Detroit because the coaching staff and everybody in the front office are great. When I'm there, I feel like a leader and like I can influence the young guys and do great things. Hopefully, I can get back to where I want to be in Detroit."
The Kentucky product doesn't need OTAs or minicamp to stay in shape and will be ready to play. The Lions should certainly call the fourth-round pick and see if they can agree to terms on a one-year deal to bring him back to the Motor City for the 2025 season with his 69 career sacks.