Za’Darius Smith Declares His Desire to Return to the Detroit Lions While Speaking at the BET Awards: “I Want to Be in Detroit”

Za’Darius Smith turned heads on and off the red carpet during last night’s BET Awards, and not because of his fashion choice. While speaking with USA Today, the Pro Bowl pass rusher made a striking comment that lit a spark across Detroit Lions fandom and stirred up speculation across the NFL: “We both know where I WANT TO BE… hopefully I can get back to where I want to be in DETROIT.”

Just like that, one sentence reignited a conversation that’s been quietly buzzing since the 2024 NFL season ended — would Za’Darius Smith return to Detroit? Now, after last night’s awards ceremony, it’s clear the desire is mutual. At least from Smith’s side.

The 32-year-old linebacker, who spent the 2023 season with the Cleveland Browns and became a free agent following a strong campaign, left an undeniable impression on the Lions organization during the few weeks he spent in Detroit earlier in his career. And although he hasn’t suited up in the Honolulu blue and silver for a full season, the energy he brought to Dan Campbell’s team in brief practice stints and community events still resonates with the franchise and fan base.

Smith has long been known for his passionate play and vocal leadership. Those same qualities were on display during his brief interview last night. Wearing a confident grin and dressed to impress, Smith leaned into the microphone and made his intentions crystal clear: Detroit is the city where he wants to finish what he started.

The former Kentucky Wildcat is no stranger to perseverance and reinvention. A former fourth-round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, Smith carved out a dominant career with the Green Bay Packers and later with the Minnesota Vikings and Cleveland Browns. In Cleveland last season, he racked up 8.5 sacks and 42 pressures while helping anchor one of the league’s most fearsome front sevens.

But perhaps more importantly, Smith showed he still has plenty left in the tank. His high motor, explosive first step, and ability to generate pressure in key moments were on full display throughout the Browns’ playoff push. He was a difference-maker — not just a veteran holding on, but a legitimate contributor on a team with real postseason aspirations.

That’s exactly the type of player Detroit could use in 2025.

The Lions, under Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes, have built one of the most physical, disciplined, and exciting defenses in the NFL. But even after an impressive 2024 season that included a deep playoff run, there were signs that Detroit needed more juice on the edge, especially when facing elite quarterbacks who excel under pressure. The Lions’ pass rush, led by Aidan Hutchinson, was effective but inconsistent when it mattered most. Adding a savvy veteran like Smith — someone who can thrive in high-leverage moments and mentor younger players — would give the Lions both depth and experience.

And that’s precisely why Smith’s comments are significant. In an era where athletes often dodge direct answers and speak in vague generalities about free agency, Smith didn’t mince words. He wants to be in Detroit. He’s not asking — he’s making a statement.

The Lions’ brass has been tight-lipped on the possibility of bringing in another veteran edge rusher, but Smith’s public remarks could force their hand. Detroit has the cap space to make a short-term deal work, especially if both sides are interested in a reunion. Smith likely wouldn’t command top-of-the-market dollars, but his leadership and impact could be priceless for a team on the cusp of a Super Bowl run.

Detroit fans, for their part, seem more than ready to welcome Smith back. Social media exploded shortly after the clip aired, with fans and local media figures alike expressing excitement and optimism about the possibility of adding another proven playmaker to the defensive front.

For Smith, Detroit offers more than just a football fit. It’s a culture match. Dan Campbell’s hard-nosed, emotionally driven coaching style meshes perfectly with Smith’s mentality. This is a coach who isn’t afraid to show emotion, who preaches effort, toughness, and resilience. Those aren’t just buzzwords for Smith — they’ve defined his career.

And then there’s the locker room. The Lions have built a close-knit, brotherhood-type atmosphere that attracts players who want to win and be part of something bigger than themselves. Smith fits that mold to a tee. He’s always been a team-first guy, willing to sacrifice stats and snaps for the betterment of the group. That’s rare in the NFL, and it’s exactly what Detroit needs as it continues to chase the franchise’s first Super Bowl.

Last night’s remarks weren’t just about nostalgia or longing — they were strategic. Smith made sure to deliver his message in front of cameras, at one of the most widely-watched entertainment events of the year. That’s not a coincidence. It was a message, not just to Detroit fans, but to Lions decision-makers: “I’m ready. Let’s do this.”

There are still hurdles, of course. The Lions have been aggressive this offseason in locking up young talent and supplementing the roster with cost-effective veterans. They may have other priorities on the cap sheet. And it’s always possible Smith has suitors elsewhere who can offer more years or more money. But if the interest is mutual — and after Smith’s comments, it certainly seems that way — then the door is wide open.

One possible path forward could be a one-year deal with performance incentives, giving Detroit flexibility and Smith a chance to prove once again that he’s worth every penny. It’s the type of arrangement that’s worked for veteran players in recent years, especially on contending teams. Think Von Miller with the Rams in 2021, or Justin Houston with the Ravens. These aren’t just older players clinging to relevance — they’re guys who understand their role, elevate the locker room, and produce when it matters.

Smith’s potential return could also play a significant role in the development of the Lions’ young defensive stars. Players like Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston would benefit greatly from learning alongside a seasoned pass rusher who’s been through the wars — who knows what it takes to win in January. That kind of mentorship can’t be quantified, but it often shows up in the most important games of the season.

If there’s one thing Detroit fans have learned over the last few years, it’s that Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell have a plan — and they stick to it. They’re not going to make a move just because it’s popular. But when culture and production align, they don’t hesitate. Bringing back Za’Darius Smith checks both boxes.

And if the player is already campaigning publicly to make it happen?

Well, that’s the kind of thing that tends to speed up the process.

Whether it happens tomorrow or in the coming weeks, one thing is now clear: Za’Darius Smith wants to be a Detroit Lion again. Not for a victory lap. Not for a retirement tour. But to compete, to lead, and to help finish what the Lions have started.

Detroit is no longer a rebuilding project. It’s a destination. And Za’Darius Smith wants in.

The only question now is — will the Lions say yes?