BREAKING: Detroit Lions Deliver Major Update On Their Stance To Bring Back Pro Bowl Edge Rusher Za’Darius Smith For 2025

The Detroit Lions are no strangers to bold moves, aggressive decisions, and calculated risks in their mission to climb to the NFL’s mountaintop. After a magical 2024 season that saw the franchise come agonizingly close to its first-ever Super Bowl appearance, General Manager Brad Holmes and Head Coach Dan Campbell have made it clear — this team is in win-now mode.

But while the Lions boast one of the league’s most explosive offenses and a budding defensive unit, one glaring question remains for the 2025 roster: Will Za’Darius Smith return to Detroit?

On Sunday morning, the Lions’ front office finally delivered the much-anticipated update on their stance regarding bringing back the Pro Bowl pass rusher, and it has fans across Detroit buzzing with anticipation.

The Za’Darius Smith Effect in Detroit

When the Lions orchestrated the trade with the Cleveland Browns to acquire Smith last season, it was viewed as a low-risk, high-reward gamble. Few predicted just how impactful the veteran edge rusher would become for Detroit’s defense.

Smith brought more than sacks — though he provided plenty of those, racking up 9.5 in the regular season — he brought attitude, playoff experience, and a veteran presence that permeated the locker room. Alongside budding superstar Aidan Hutchinson, Smith helped transform the Lions’ pass rush into a relentless, quarterback-hunting machine that terrorized offenses throughout the NFC.

In fact, it’s hard to imagine Detroit’s deep playoff run happening without Smith’s influence, both on and off the field.

However, as the offseason rolled around, Smith’s future became murky. The former Pro Bowler entered free agency seeking what many believe to be his final big payday, while the Lions juggled cap space, roster priorities, and looming contract extensions for young stars like Penei Sewell and Amon-Ra St. Brown.

Since then, the “Bring Back Za’Darius” movement has taken over Detroit’s passionate fanbase. Social media campaigns, interviews, and even players like Hutchinson have openly voiced their desire to see Smith back in Honolulu Blue for the 2025 campaign.

Lions Front Office Breaks Silence

After weeks of speculation and radio silence from team officials, Brad Holmes finally addressed the Za’Darius Smith situation during his Sunday press conference at Allen Park.

“We’ve maintained consistent dialogue with Za’Darius and his representatives,” Holmes stated. “From day one, we’ve been very transparent. We value what he brought to this locker room, and we know the type of competitor he is.”

While Holmes didn’t officially confirm a deal is imminent, his tone carried optimism — and for the first time, a clear indication that the door is wide open for Smith’s return.

“Za’Darius fits our culture,” Holmes continued. “And I’ve said before, we’re going to exhaust every option to make this team better. That includes continuing conversations with guys who helped us win.”

Behind the scenes, sources close to the situation suggest the Lions have remained in touch with Smith’s camp and that contract negotiations, while not finalized, have progressed positively in recent weeks. Multiple insiders have indicated that money isn’t the only factor for Smith — the 32-year-old is reportedly prioritizing competing for a Super Bowl, and there’s no doubt the Lions check that box.

Financial Implications and Roster Ramifications

Detroit’s front office has been strategic with its offseason spending. Major financial commitments have already been allocated toward fortifying the offensive line, adding depth at cornerback, and retaining core special teams contributors.

The biggest looming contract is undoubtedly that of quarterback Jared Goff, who signed a lucrative extension in May that reshaped the Lions’ cap structure. However, Brad Holmes structured Goff’s deal with flexibility in mind, creating space for additions like a potential Za’Darius Smith reunion.

The Lions currently sit with just under $11 million in effective cap space for 2025, per OverTheCap.com. While Smith is unlikely to command top-tier edge rusher money given his age, he is expected to earn a respectable short-term deal reflecting his production, leadership, and playoff-caliber presence.

A reunion with Smith wouldn’t merely be a sentimental move — it addresses a critical roster need. Despite Hutchinson’s emergence as an All-Pro threat off the edge, the Lions’ pass-rushing depth remains thin. Young players like Josh Paschal and James Houston have shown flashes, but Detroit lacks a proven veteran disruptor beyond Hutchinson.

Bringing back Smith not only bolsters the edge rotation but also provides invaluable mentorship for Detroit’s rising defensive talent. His ability to line up across multiple positions in Aaron Glenn’s scheme makes him an ideal chess piece for the Lions’ aggressive, attacking style of defense.

The Player’s Perspective

Za’Darius Smith has been relatively quiet publicly about his free agency status, but he hasn’t exactly concealed his affinity for Detroit. Following the Lions’ NFC Championship Game loss to the 49ers, Smith posted on social media: “Unfinished Business. Love this city. #OnePride.”

Those four words ignited a wave of speculation that the veteran pass rusher desired to run it back with Campbell’s crew. Smith’s chemistry with teammates, especially Hutchinson and fellow defensive lineman Alim McNeill, was evident throughout the season.

League insiders have also pointed to Smith’s strong relationship with Dan Campbell as a key factor that could sway his decision. Campbell, a former player himself, is known for his player-first approach and has earned the trust and respect of veterans across the league.

The Final Hurdles

While momentum appears to be building toward a potential reunion, a few hurdles remain before Za’Darius Smith can officially suit up in Honolulu Blue again.

First and foremost is contract structure. The Lions are reportedly working to craft a deal that aligns with their long-term financial vision while still providing Smith with fair compensation. Expect a heavily incentive-based contract with performance triggers tied to sacks, playing time, and postseason success.

Secondly, health will be monitored closely. Though Smith played in all 17 regular season games in 2024, his injury history is well-documented, particularly nagging knee issues. The Lions’ medical staff will undoubtedly conduct thorough evaluations to ensure Smith can contribute at a high level over the course of another grueling season.

Lastly, timing could play a role. With training camp approaching, both sides may aim to reach a resolution before the team reports to Allen Park. Having Smith integrated into offseason workouts, film sessions, and defensive installations would maximize his impact and accelerate chemistry-building with the revamped defensive front.

The Fan Reaction

News of the Lions’ latest stance on Za’Darius Smith has predictably sent shockwaves across the fanbase. The “#BringBackZaDarius” hashtag trended across Michigan within hours of Holmes’ comments, with fans flooding social media with excitement, speculation, and mock contract proposals.

For a franchise long starved of consistent success, Smith symbolizes more than just pass-rushing prowess — he embodies the grit, swagger, and toughness that has come to define this new era of Lions football under Campbell and Holmes.

What Comes Next

The ball is now firmly in the Lions’ court. The groundwork has been laid, interest has been confirmed, and both parties seemingly share the same goal: Win now, win big, and finish what they started.

As Detroit continues its march toward training camp and a 2025 season filled with Super Bowl aspirations, one of the final puzzle pieces may soon slide into place.

Will Za’Darius Smith be back in the Motor City, hunting quarterbacks, igniting crowds at Ford Field, and fueling another playoff run?

All signs point to the reunion being more a matter of “when,” not “if.”

Stay tuned. The roar in Detroit is only getting louder.