The NFL's free agency tampering window opens on Monday, meaning it won't be much longer before the offseason reaches the next gear. Detroit Lions fans are eager to see what moves general manager Brad Holmes will have in store after Dan Campbell's team was unceremoniously eliminated from the postseason's Divisional Round.
Although OverTheCap lists the Lions as having just north of $51.1 million to spend in free agency, that might not be enough money to help Holmes achieve his goals. Every dollar counts in the NFL, and it wouldn't be out of the question for Detroit to release a veteran or two if it means having a better shot of building a Super Bowl contender.
As it turns out, that's exactly what the Lions did this weekend.
Lions Released DE Za'Darius Smith Before Free Agency
With less than 24 hours to go before tampering begins, NFL insider Jeremy Fowler is reporting that the Lions are releasing veteran defensive end Za'Darius Smith. The three-time Pro Bowl defender can begin negotiating with new teams on Monday and will be eligible to officially sign a new contract any time after Wednesday.
Source: The #Lions plan to release pass rusher Za'Darius Smith.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 9, 2025
NFL veteran had nine sacks last season.
At first glance, Smith's cut might surprise some Lions fans, given that he was only going to carry a $4 million cap hit next season. Having said that, he was due $9 million in bonuses shortly after free agency opens, meaning Holmes & Co. wanted to cut ties before having to pay that large sum of money.
A former 2015 fourth-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens, Smith played games with four other franchises before ending up in the Motor City. The Cleveland Browns traded the former Kentucky Wildcat — along with a 2026 seventh-rounder — to the Lions in exchange for two draft picks ahead of last season's trade deadline.
Smith was a solid defensive contributor with the Lions, registering seven solo tackles and 4.0 sacks in eight regular-season appearances. Unfortunately, his tenure ended on a low note during the playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, finishing the elimination game with horrific tackling (24.8) and defensive (39.8) Pro Football Focus grades.
At the end of the day, the offseason divorce could be mutually beneficial. The Lions open a roster spot and get to save money, while Smith has a shot at a fresh start following a forgettable playoff run.
Even though his time in Detroit ended on a low note, finding work likely won't be an issue for Smith. The 32-year-old EDGE is still a solid disruptor when he's on his game, and teams are always looking to upgrade their pass rush. A one-year 'prove yourself' deal with the right suitor could be exactly what the doctor ordered.
Although the tampering window opens tomorrow, NFL free agency doesn't officially begin until 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday.