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Lions Content with Current Roster, Forego Za'Darius Smith Reunion | Browns Bolster Offensive Line with Zion Johnson Signing | Leo Chenal Free Agency Outlook: Potential Roles and Team Fits | Titans Sign Former Chiefs CB Joshua Williams | Chargers Sign Cole Strange to Bolster Offensive Line | Eagles 7-Round NFL Mock Draft 2026: Reshaping the Roster | 2026 Free Agent Forecast: Patriots Focus on Offensive Line | Eagles Eye Jalon Kilgore as Reed Blankenship's Future Remains Uncertain | Broncos Release Linebacker Dre Greenlaw | Lions Content with Current Roster, Forego Za'Darius Smith Reunion | Browns Bolster Offensive Line with Zion Johnson Signing | Leo Chenal Free Agency Outlook: Potential Roles and Team Fits | Titans Sign Former Chiefs CB Joshua Williams | Chargers Sign Cole Strange to Bolster Offensive Line | Eagles 7-Round NFL Mock Draft 2026: Reshaping the Roster | 2026 Free Agent Forecast: Patriots Focus on Offensive Line | Eagles Eye Jalon Kilgore as Reed Blankenship's Future Remains Uncertain | Broncos Release Linebacker Dre Greenlaw

NFL / Detroit Lions

Lions Content with Current Roster, Forego Za'Darius Smith Reunion

The Detroit Lions are heading into the 2025 NFL season with confidence in their current defensive lineup, despite not re-signing veteran pass rusher Za'Darius Smith. Coach Dan Campbell has expressed satisfaction with the team's depth and th...

Why haven't Lions brought back Za'Darius Smith? Campbell: "We're good right now"
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Lions Content with Current Roster, Forego Za'Darius Smith Reunion Image via Audacy

Key Insights

  • Dan Campbell stated the Lions are 'good right now' regarding their defensive line depth.
  • Za'Darius Smith previously played eight games for the Lions, tallying four sacks and 36 quarterback pressures.
  • Smith expressed a desire to return to Detroit, but the Lions have not been able to agree on a deal.
  • The Lions are confident in Marcus Davenport as a starting edge rusher alongside Aidan Hutchinson.
  • Kash Doll, Za'Darius Smith's girlfriend, responded to Campbell's comments via an Instagram post.

In-Depth Analysis

The Detroit Lions' decision not to pursue Za'Darius Smith, despite his previous contributions and expressed interest in returning, reflects the team's belief in its current defensive lineup. Coach Dan Campbell has specifically praised Marcus Davenport's performance and versatility, emphasizing his fit within the team's defensive packages.

The Lions traded for Za'Darius Smith last season, and he contributed 4 sacks in 8 games. However, with Davenport and Hutchinson healthy, Smith would likely have seen a reduced role as a specialized pass-rusher. This likely factored into the inability of Smith and the Lions to reach an agreement on a new deal.

While some fans have voiced support for Smith's return, Campbell's comments suggest the team is prioritizing depth and versatility. The Lions also have Al-Quadin Muhammad and are hoping for Josh Paschal's return from injury, further bolstering their defensive options.

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FAQ

Why didn't the Lions re-sign Za'Darius Smith?

Coach Dan Campbell stated the team is satisfied with its current defensive line depth and has confidence in players like Marcus Davenport.

How did Za'Darius Smith perform for the Lions last season?

Smith recorded four sacks and 36 quarterback pressures in eight games.

Who is expected to start at edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson?

Marcus Davenport is expected to fill that role, with Campbell expressing confidence in his abilities.

Takeaways

  • The Detroit Lions are confident in their current defensive lineup.
  • Marcus Davenport is expected to play a key role on the defensive line.
  • Za'Darius Smith will not be returning to the Lions at this time.
  • The team values depth and versatility in its defensive players.

Discussion

What do you think about the Lions' decision not to re-sign Za'Darius Smith? Do you believe their current defensive lineup is strong enough? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Sources

Disclaimer

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