• Wed. Feb 19th, 2025

Za’Darius Smith speaks about his future with the Detroit Lions in a social media update.

ByGbemiro Timmy

Jan 25, 2025

Following the Detroit Lions’ loss of edge rushers Marcus Davenport and Aidan Hutchinson to injuries that ended their seasons, general manager Brad Holmes had to search the trade market for a replacement.

 

Ultimately, he secured veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith via a trade with the Cleveland Browns just before the deadline. The Lions obtained Smith along with a seventh-round pick in 2026 in return for a fifth-round pick in 2025 and a sixth-round pick in 2026.

 

“But acquiring a pass rusher—this was the first instance we needed to trade for one this year—was the hardest player acquisition process I’ve ever experienced,” Holmes remarked about the Smith trade during his end-of-year press conference.

 

Smith went on to record four sacks after joining Detroit, marking the second-highest total on the team even though he played only half a season with the Lions. He did not, however, have any effect in the playoff defeat against the Washington Commanders.

 

As we look toward 2025, Smith remains under contract, but he will also turn 33 that year and can be released with zero dead money if the Lions opt for that decision.

 

In a recent post on social media, Smith clearly expressed his desire to remain in Detroit.

 

“Motor City, 2024 turned out quite differently than expected; we did not achieve the results we aimed for,” Smith noted. “2025 presents us with another chance to adapt and strive for that championship!” I cherished every moment spent with my boys, and although some faces have shifted for the new season, I aspire to remain a part of this wonderful organization moving forward!

 

 

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