The Detroit Lions released edge rusher Za'Darius Smith in March. However, a reunion between both sides has never made more sense.
Detroit needs to add another starting-caliber pass rusher to the roster to help out Aidan Hutchinson, and bringing back Smith, who posted nine sacks in 2024 and played well in nine games with the Lions, would be a logical move.
Smith has already expressed interest in returning to Detroit, and his nephew, wide receiver Jackson Meeks, is also hoping his uncle comes back to the Lions.
Meeks, who signed with Detroit as an undrafted free agent in April, told Kory Woods of MLive that playing with his uncle, Smith, would be a dream come true.
“That’d be a dream come true, man. I’ve been asking him about that since I was 12 or 13,” Meeks on playing with his uncle Za'Darius Smith. “Like I said, the younger kid in me -- when I got this opportunity with the Lions, man, I was so ecstatic. So, man, it would be such a blessing to be able to play with my uncle.”
Meeks is fighting for a roster spot in Detroit's wide receiver room, and if he makes the team, it could lead to Smith returning to the Motor City.
Though he isn't a prolific pass rusher and is getting older, Smith can still be a productive player and would give the Lions' pass rush a much-needed boost. Additionally, the three-time Pro Bowler's veteran leadership would be incredibly valuable for Dan Campbell's squad.
Detroit still has $48 million in cap space, so they have the money to sign Smith back. The edge rusher room needs another playmaker, and the 32-year-old out of Kentucky could be the answer.
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