Lions GM Explains Za’Darius Smith’s Release (And It’s a Weak Justification)
Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes sheds light on why the team parted ways with Za’Darius Smith.
Detroit Lions defensive end Za’Darius Smith (99) celebrates a sack on Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold (14) during the first half at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025.
Detroit Lions defensive end Za’Darius Smith (99) celebrates a sack on Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold (14) during the first half at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
This offseason, the Detroit Lions have experienced a wave of coaching and player departures. While some players chose to sign with new teams, others were not given that choice.
EDGE rusher Za’Darius Smith fell into the latter category, as he was cut from the roster on March 9. The Lions had acquired Smith from the Cleveland Browns at the trade deadline to strengthen the defensive line following Aidan Hutchinson’s season-ending injury.
At the NFL Owners Meetings on Monday, GM Brad Holmes addressed Smith’s release, but his reasoning is unlikely to sit well with Lions fans. Holmes stated that financial constraints led to the decision.
“We just couldn’t afford it. That’s the reality. That was my message to him, and he got it,” the Lions GM explained (h/t Nolan Bianchi of the Detroit News).
He continued, “We weren’t in a spot to retain him at his salary. He played key snaps for us and made an impact after we brought him in, so we would’ve liked to keep him. But financially, it wasn’t possible. We’ve remained in contact with his agent, and he understands how things work, so we’ll see what happens.”
By releasing Smith, the Lions freed up $5.7 million in cap space for 2025 and $5.2 million for 2026. While this extra money could be useful later, Detroit wasn’t exactly in a cap crisis.
As per Overthecap.com, the Lions currently hold $42.9 million in cap space, meaning they could have comfortably taken on Smith’s salary and retained a proven pass rusher. In eight games for Detroit, Smith recorded 12 total tackles, three tackles for loss, 10 QB hits, and four sacks.
Reliable pass rushers are invaluable in the NFL. The Lions endured multiple injuries to key players in 2024, which is why they initially acquired Smith. Letting him go after just half a season, despite their healthy cap situation, is a puzzling move.