The Detroit Lions made their move for Za’Darius Smith during the 2024 season out of clear necessity. After Aidan Hutchinson suffered a serious leg injury that ended his year, Detroit suddenly found itself without its top pass-rushing presence. Looking to stabilize the defensive front, the Lions turned to Smith, who was putting together a strong campaign with the Cleveland Browns at the time.

Smith provided solid, though not game-changing, production in Detroit. Over eight appearances, he totaled four sacks, 12 tackles, and one pass breakup. However, his playoff impact fell short of expectations — a key reason the team had pursued him in the first place. When free agency arrived in 2025, the Lions chose not to bring him back.

Even after Smith’s departure, the trade still had lingering value. As part of the deal, Detroit secured the 222nd overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Lions later used that pick to select Tyre West, a defensive lineman from Tennessee Volunteers football who had drawn attention from multiple teams. Among those showing interest were the New York Jets, led defensively by former Lions coach Aaron Glenn. Still, Detroit ultimately added West to its roster.

Since moving on from Smith, the Lions have continued strengthening their pass rush. They drafted Derrick Moore out of Michigan and signed D. J. Wonnum in free agency. Additionally, when healthy, Alim McNeill remains an effective interior disruptor — an element the defense noticeably lacked at times in 2025.

West is not expected to step in as a starter right away, but he brings intriguing traits. Though he may not fit the traditional mold of an NFL defensive tackle due to his height, his strength and potential versatility appear to have appealed to Detroit’s front office.

After leaving the Lions, Smith briefly continued his career with the Philadelphia Eagles before announcing his retirement. Even though his tenure in Detroit was short, he was able to contribute meaningful snaps before stepping away from the game.