Last season, the Detroit Lions were the best team in the NFL. Heading into the playoffs, many thought that a Super Bowl run would be in store.
Unfortunately, in their first matchup in the divisional round, the Lions were defeated by Jayden Daniels and the red-hot Washington Commanders. That ended what had otherwise been an amazing season.
Heading into the 2025 campaign, Detroit is looking to finish what it started last year. In order to do that, the Lions will need to have as much talent as possible on both sides of the football. Adding more depth would be wise as well after all of the injuries the team dealt with in 2024.
Head coach Dan Campbell of the Detroit Lions celebrates after his team’s touchdown against the Chicago Bears during the third quarter at Soldier Field on December 22, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. Head coach Dan Campbell of the Detroit Lions celebrates after his team’s touchdown against the Chicago Bears during the third quarter at Soldier Field on December 22, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images
One area Detroit could still consider improving happens to be the pass rushing group. Aidan Hutchinson will be back on the field, but bringing in more depth off the edge is still a need.
Read more: Lions Coach’s Latest Aidan Hutchinson Quote Will Excite Detroit Fans
To that end, the Lions have been urged to consider and named the best fit to land a very familiar face.
USA Today analyst Tyler Dragon has connected Detroit to Za’Darius Smith. Of course, Smith finished the 2024 season with the team and played well after being acquired from the Cleveland Browns before the trade deadline.
“Smith is at his best when he plays opposite a standout pass rusher at this stage of his career,” Dragon wrote. “A sign that points right back to where he played last year in Detroit. Lions star edge Aidan Hutchinson was cleared to return for football activities in late May.”
Following his trade to the Lions, Smith played in eight games. He racked up 12 total tackles to go along with four sacks and a defended pass. In the previous nine games with the Browns, he totaled 23 tackles and five sacks.
Read more: Vikings Reportedly Concerned With JJ McCarthy
At 32 years old, Smith is still more than capable of being a high-level pass rusher. Depending on the price tag, Detroit should seriously consider bringing him back.
Having too much depth is never a thing for a Super Bowl contender. Smith is about as good as pass rushing depth can get.
While the Lions may not have interest in reuniting with Smith, he fits well with the Dan Campbell mindset. His career is also winding down, which would make returning to Detroit and competing for a championship a likely route he’d be interest in taking.
For more Detroit Lions and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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