A closer review revealed that keeping Za’Darius Smith was simply not viable for the Detroit Lions under his contract structure. With nearly $9 million in bonuses due on the third day of the 2025 league year, retaining him was financially unfeasible.

Additionally, a contract restructure or pay cut could not be agreed upon, leading to the veteran edge rusher’s release just before free agency began.

By cutting Smith, the Lions freed up $5.7 million in cap space without any dead money, making the decision financially logical.

However, their approach to replacing him is questionable. The most notable move so far has been re-signing Marcus Davenport, alongside a few minor re-signings. The team appears to be relying heavily on a strong draft class to address their edge rusher need.

If the choice was between Smith and Davenport, there’s a strong case that the Lions made the wrong decision.

With the third week of free agency approaching, Smith remains unsigned, raising speculation about a possible return to Detroit. If his release was due to a pay cut request he rejected, a reunion seems unlikely. However, if he struggles to find the deal he wants on the open market, the door for a return remains open.

Smith’s scouting report further highlights the Lions’ mistake in letting him go.

ESPN’s Matt Bowen recently ranked the top available free agents, listing Smith at No. 12. He described Smith as:

“Last season—with both the Browns and Lions—Smith recorded nine sacks and 38 pressures. He’s a speed-to-power rusher who can also line up as a standup nose or 3-technique to exploit interior matchups. He could provide value to a contender needing a rotational edge with scheme versatility.”

A versatile rusher who can fit different alignments and contribute to a contender’s rotation—doesn’t that sound like a player Detroit still needs? Over the past two seasons, Smith has played 33 games, while Davenport has appeared in only six.

Other factors likely played into Smith’s release. The Browns’ contract structure complicated a potential restructure. Smith has also been unwilling to accept pay cuts in the past. It’s even possible he requested his release, and a restructure was never discussed.

Despite having a dependable edge rusher, the Lions have yet to add a proven replacement. Maybe their plan will become clear with time, but for now, letting Smith go seems increasingly like a mistake.