Za’Darius Smith’s journey from a Pro Bowler with the Green Bay Packers to a key player for the Detroit Lions has been one of redemption, particularly after his departure from Green Bay.

After three seasons with the Packers, where he earned two Pro Bowl selections in his first two years, Smith’s time in Green Bay was overshadowed by injury and a bitter exit.

When he squared off against his former team in the Lions’ 34-31 win over the Packers on Thursday Night Football, Smith made it clear how personal the game was for him.

A Rocky Exit from Green Bay

Smith’s tenure with the Packers initially looked promising, but injuries derailed his career. A back injury in 2021 cut his season short, and his relationship with the team soured.

He felt the Packers didn’t show him the respect he deserved after the injury, and his frustration only grew when he was released. Eventually, Smith found himself in a position to face his old team again, but this time, he was wearing a Lions uniform.

A Desire for Revenge

After the Lions’ victory over the Packers, NFL Network’s Stacey Dales caught up with Smith, who was clearly carrying a sense of revenge into the game. Dales mentioned Smith had hinted at this being a revenge game, asking how it felt to face the Packers after everything he had done for them.

Smith’s response was straightforward and charged with emotion. “I gave them two good years, and once I got hurt, they treated me like I was nothing,” Smith said. “But I’m glad to be on this side now. I had the chance to go to the Vikings for revenge, and now I’m here in Detroit getting my revenge once again.”

His words made it clear that this game was about more than just another regular-season matchup—it was a chance for Smith to take control of his story and prove the Packers made a mistake by letting him go.

A Fresh Start in Detroit

Za’Darius Smith’s resurgence with the Lions has been a tale of redemption, and his performance in this emotionally charged game against the Packers only adds to that narrative. As the Lions continue their dominant run, Smith’s impact has been undeniable, especially with the extra motivation he brings to the field.

While the Packers may have moved on from him, Smith’s revenge against Green Bay on Thursday night serves as a reminder that a change in environment can reignite a player’s passion—and for Smith, it helped bring him back to his peak form.

Whether the Packers realize it or not, they may have let go of a player who could have been integral to their success. For Smith, his victory with the Lions was a personal triumph, and it’s clear he’s far from finished.