Lions Open to Bringing Back All-Pro – Chargers, Ravens Could Intervene
The Detroit Lions are opening to bringing back this veteran edge rusher but could receive interest from other teams soon.
The Detroit Lions are open to bringing back All-Pro edge rusher ZaDarius Smith this offseason. The NFL Draft is weeks away and there probably won’t be any more free-agent signings until it’s over, but Smith could sign very soon. According to a report, Lions general manager Brad Holmes said it was unfortunate that the team had to release Smith, but they had to save their salary cap this offseason. However, it doesn’t rule out a return as it will depend on what the Lions need, so waiting until the NFL Draft is over could be a smart decision for most teams.
Originally selected in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, the former Kentucky product began his career with the Baltimore Ravens, playing out his rookie contract before joining the Green Bay Packers in 2019 on another four-year deal. Smith had one year left on that before the Packers decided to release him where the edge rusher did return to Baltimore but decided to opt out of the contract to sign with the Vikings. The veteran became a journeyman, but he’s still a reliable pass rusher in the league after joining the Browns, but later signing on a temporary contract with the Lions.
Smith was a replacement in Aidan Hutchinson’s brutal injury, and it makes sense why the Lions were moving on either way since Hutchinson is returning. There would be no use in Smith, but he might return at the right offer. However, they may have to act fast because these two teams could intervene in those potential negotiation talks.
