Defensive End Wanted for $42 Million in Lions’ “Overhaul” of Edge Rush.
In 2023, the Detroit Lions made notable improvements to their defense, although the consistency of their pass rush remained a concern. With an anticipated overhaul of their edge-rushing unit during the upcoming offseason, Jeff Risdon of USA Today suggests that the addition of three-time Pro Bowler Za’Darius Smith could be a strategic move to complement standout player Aidan Hutchinson. Risdon highlights Smith as a potential “under-the-radar” acquisition, providing veteran leadership that the Lions are set to lose.
The Lions are expected to witness significant changes in their pass-rushing group, with some veterans likely departing in free agency. Risdon notes the departure of Julian Okwara to Philadelphia and the free agency status of both Romeo Okwara and Charles Harris, signaling the team’s need for a more productive veteran presence. According to Risdon, Za’Darius Smith could fit this role, offering experience and a final opportunity for a Super Bowl run.
Despite Smith receiving little attention leading up to free agency, Risdon emphasizes his potential value, citing his 15.5 sacks over the last two seasons. The drop in Smith’s performance in 2023, with 5.5 sacks and 27 total tackles, may be attributed to playing alongside the more productive Myles Garrett in Cleveland.
While Smith may not be the Pro Bowler he once was, at 33, he still presents a viable option as an effective outside-in pass rusher with the ability to contribute to the Lions’ defensive efforts. Risdon suggests that Smith could offer the consistency lacking in the Lions’ pass rush, especially opposite the second-year standout, Hutchinson, who accounted for a significant portion of the team’s sacks.
Za’Darius Smith, having signed a one-year, $10.5-million contract with the Browns last year, could be a financially reasonable addition for the Lions. Notably, he had previously signed a three-year, $42-million deal with the Minnesota Vikings two years ago.
In addition to the potential acquisition of Smith, the Lions have already made moves to strengthen their defense by signing Mathieu Betts from the Canadian Football League. Betts, the former Most Outstanding Defensive Player in the CFL, chose Detroit over other NFL offers, bringing 18 sacks from his last season with the B.C. Lions.
