For fans hoping the Detroit Lions re-sign Za’Darius Smith for 2025, you’re not alone. The experienced pass rusher made it clear this week that he wants to return to Detroit for the upcoming season.

“We both know where I want to be,” Smith told USA TODAY during the BET Awards. “Hopefully I can go back to Detroit because the coaching staff and front office are outstanding. I feel like a leader there, someone who can guide younger players and contribute in big ways. Hopefully, I can get back to where I belong in Detroit.”

Last season, the Lions traded for Smith at the deadline after injuries sidelined Derrick Barnes, Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, and John Cominsky. Detroit sent a 2025 fifth-round and 2026 sixth-round pick to the Browns in exchange for Smith and a 2026 seventh-rounder. Smith gave Detroit a boost, recording 4.0 sacks, three tackles for loss, and 36 pressures in eight games.

This offseason, Detroit released Smith to save cap space. General manager Brad Holmes explained the decision was based solely on finances, saving $11 million over two seasons with zero dead cap cost.

“We just couldn’t keep him at his price,” Holmes said. “He gave us solid snaps and made key plays after we traded for him, so of course we’d have liked to keep him. It just wasn’t financially doable.”

Still, Holmes has said a return is possible and that the team has stayed in touch with Smith’s representation about a potential reunion. Holmes’ latest comments suggest the next step is up to Smith’s camp.

“I think we left things with his agent keeping us informed if anything comes up or if there are updates,” Holmes said in April.

Another major reason Smith hopes to return to Detroit is to chase the one goal left in his standout 10-year career: a Super Bowl ring.

“I’m entering Year 11. As a vet, that’s the only thing I haven’t achieved,” Smith said. “I’ve done the sacks, All-Pro, Pro Bowl — now I just want to win a championship and get that ring.”