Recent reports indicate that the Kansas City Chiefs are interested in signing a well-regarded free agent with ties to Detroit. But if General Manager Brad Holmes acts quickly, he can bring Za’Darius Smith back into the fold with the Lions before Kansas City seals the deal.
Smith’s Impact Since Joining the Lions
In late 2024, just before the NFL trade deadline, the Lions traded with the Cleveland Browns for Smith after Aidan Hutchinson suffered a season-ending injury. Over the course of eight games, Smith—a three-time Pro Bowler—logged 12 tackles (including three for loss), 4 sacks, and 10 quarterback hits. His brief tenure generated excitement around a potential dynamic edge-rushing duo with Hutchinson had the team made it to the Super Bowl.
Smith Fit Right in with Detroit
Though Detroit’s playoff run ended earlier than hoped after losing to Washington, the idea of Smith and Hutchinson playing side by side in 2025 kept fans hopeful. From the outset, the 32-year-old veteran connected with the Detroit community—supporting other local teams, embracing the city, and even starting a relationship with Detroit entertainer Kash Doll. The only drawback? A steep contract Detroit inherited from Cleveland that would cost them $11 million over two seasons.
Financial Roadblock and a Potential Reunion
Due to salary cap constraints, Holmes released Smith in March 2025. The split was mutual, and the Lions front office expressed interest in working with Smith’s agent on a restructured deal. But with time passing and other franchises showing interest, questions about a reunion grew louder.
Why Smith Belongs in Detroit
After entering the NFL in 2015 with Baltimore, Smith has been with five franchises, including the Packers and Vikings. A move to Kansas City would make it six. But Detroit offers something the others didn’t—stability and familiarity. He already knows the coaching staff, system, and locker room culture. Re-signing him would not only provide the team with a known asset but also add valuable depth behind Hutchinson.
Given the uncertainty around Marcus Davenport’s health and the developmental status of rookie Ahmed Hassanein, bolstering the edge position is essential. Smith proved he could thrive in Detroit’s defense, and with Hutchinson healthy, opposing offenses would struggle to neutralize both threats.
Family Ties and Super Bowl Aspirations
There’s also a personal reason for Smith to remain in the Motor City: his nephew, Jackson Meeks, recently signed with the team as an undrafted free agent. Meeks, a standout receiver from Syracuse, posted 78 receptions for over 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024. Known for excelling in contested catches and offering physical blocking in the run game, Meeks fits Detroit’s mold perfectly.
Despite an impressive career, Smith has never played in a Super Bowl. The Lions, who are seen as legitimate contenders for 2025, offer him perhaps his best shot. A return to Detroit could be the move that benefits both sides and brings them one step closer to a title.
