“Detroit Lions Teeter on the Edge of Collapse After Nightmare Start, Former NFL Terror at DE Could Be Called Back as ‘Final Weapon’ to Stop the Bleeding — But Can He Really Change the Team’s Fate?” – News

“Detroit Lions Teeter on the Edge of Collaps...

“Detroit Lions Teeter on the Edge of Collapse After Nightmare Start, Former NFL Terror at DE Could Be Called Back as ‘Final Weapon’ to Stop the Bleeding — But Can He Really Change the Team’s Fate?”

Lions Encouraged to ‘Consider Bringing Back’ Veteran DE

The Detroit Lions acquired veteran defensive end Za’Darius Smith at the NFL trade deadline last season, but then released him in a salary cap saving move in March. The Lions created $5 million in cap space with the move.

But on Sunday, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox again urged the Lions to potentially re-sign Smith for additional depth in 2025.

“The Detroit Lions should also consider bringing back Smith, who spent the second half of 2024 with the franchise,” Knox wrote.

“The Lions need depth with both Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport returning from season-ending injuries.

“General manager Brad Holmes has hinted that bringing back Smith is an option.”

Smith posted 12 combined tackles, including three for loss with the Lions last season. He also had 10 quarterback hits and four sacks in eight games.

The defensive end will turn 33 years old in September. He has made the Pro Bowl three times and has earned a second-team All-Pro nomination in his 10-year NFL career.

Why the Lions Could Bring Back DE Za’Darius Smith

This isn’t the first time Knox called on the Lions to pursue a reunion with Smith. On July 19, Knox identified the Lions as a potential landing spot for the free agent defensive end.

“While Detroit allowed Smith to walk early this offseason, they should strongly consider bringing him back now,” Knox wrote.

“The Lions did little to bolster their pass rush aside from re-signing Marcus Davenport, and Smith is probably the best complement to Aidan Hutchinson that they’re going to find this late in the offseason—barring a trade for a player like Trey Hendrickson.”

One could argued if the Lions really wanted to keep Smith, they wouldn’t have released him to save cap space.

But all that move really indicates is Detroit didn’t see the veteran worth the contract he signed with the Cleveland Browns last offseason.

It doesn’t indicate that the Lions aren’t interested in Smith being part of their team at a lower price.

Over 17 games with the Lions and Browns last season, Smith posted nine sacks, nine tackles for loss and 17 quarterback hits.

Even though his last Pro Bowl season was three years ago, Smith appears capable of providing quality depth for a contender this fall.

The Lions expect Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport to start at defensive end this season. But both are returning from season-ending injuries from 2024, so it wouldn’t be the worst idea for Detroit to have insurance at the position.

Smith Previously Indicated Desire to Return to Lions

Smith remains unsigned with the first week of the preseason about to conclude. Veterans in that situation typically try to generate a market for themselves.

But Smith doesn’t appear to be doing that, and previously, he has stated how much he would like to return to the Lions this season.

“We both know where I want to be,” Za’Darius Smith told USA Today’s Tyler Dragon in June.

“Hopefully I can get back to Detroit because the coaching staff and everybody in the front office are great.

“When I’m there I feel like a leader and like I can influence the young guys and do great things.

Hopefully I can get back to where I want to be in Detroit.”

The Lions have expressed bringing back Smith as well. But on August 6, Lions general manager Brad Holmes laid out potential obstacles in the veteran returning to Detroit.

“Za’Darius did a lot of good things last year for us and we said we’re going to keep in contact with his agent, but everything’s not just one-sided,” Holmes said, via Pro Football Talk’s Josh Alper.

“Za’Darius has expectations, the team has expectations, so sometimes it takes a while for those things to get on the same page.

“Especially a guy that’s been in the league as long as he has, I’m not saying that he doesn’t want to be in training camp, but if he misses some time, there’s obviously still interest there and we’ve been keeping in touch.”

Related Articles

News • 4 months ago

Kayla Simmons is turning heads once again after sharing a bold beachside look that quickly set social media buzzing. Dubbed by fans as one of the most eye-catching figures in volleyball, Simmons posted a series of photos in a minimal white bikini — and reactions poured in almost instantly. From “mesmerising” to “unreal,” followers didn’t hold back as the post racked up engagement. Known for blending her athletic background with a strong online presence, Simmons continues to build a brand that goes far beyond the court. While the photos grabbed attention, it’s the consistency of her influence that stands out most. And one detail in the post is what fans keep coming back to. It might explain why she continues to dominate the spotlight.

KAYLA SIMMONS has bared her bum in a tiny bikini leaving her fans stunned on…

News • 4 months ago

A stunning reversal has caught fans off guard as a Pittsburgh Steelers star has already walked back his retirement — just weeks after stepping away from the game. What initially seemed like a definitive goodbye is now looking more like a pause, with the player signaling a return that’s raising eyebrows across the National Football League. Retirement decisions in the NFL are rarely simple, often shaped by physical demands, personal factors, and unfinished business — and this situation appears to be no different. Fans are split between excitement and confusion, trying to understand what changed so quickly behind the scenes. Teammates and insiders are also reacting, with speculation building about what this means for the Steelers moving forward. But one detail about the timeline of his decision is what’s drawing the most attention. And it could reveal why this U-turn happened so fast.

A FORMER PITTSBURGH STEELERS star has announced his decision to return to the NFL just…

News • 4 months ago

Life off the field is taking center stage for Dak Prescott as he and ex-fiancée Sarah Jane Ramos navigate a complicated custody situation following their high-profile breakup. After what many described as a messy split, both sides are now reportedly focused on finding a stable path forward — putting co-parenting and long-term priorities ahead of past tensions. For Prescott, the situation adds a deeply personal layer to an already demanding career with the Dallas Cowboys, where pressure never really lets up. Sources suggest efforts are being made to keep matters as private and constructive as possible, even as public interest continues to grow. Fans have been watching closely, with reactions ranging from support to curiosity about how things will unfold. But one key approach both sides are taking is what’s drawing the most attention. And it could define how this situation evolves moving forward.

Dak Prescott and ex-fiancée Sarah Jane Ramos are taking steps to amicably come to terms…

News • 4 months ago

A powerful full-circle moment is unfolding for an NFL player whose actions off the field once made headlines for all the right reasons. After bravely pulling a man from a burning car and saving his life, the National Football League star is now being handed a career lifeline of his own — a second chance that’s capturing attention across the football world. At the time, his heroic act drew widespread praise, showing a side of athletes fans don’t always get to see. Now, as he looks to revive his career, that moment is being remembered as more than just a headline — but a reflection of character. Teams are always weighing talent against intangibles, and stories like this can carry real weight. As news spreads, support is pouring in from fans and insiders alike. But one key detail about this opportunity is what’s standing out most. And it could determine whether this comeback truly takes hold.

KJ OSBORN has reportedly agreed a one-year deal with the Tennessee Titans. The wide receiver,…

News • 4 months ago

All eyes were on Fernando Mendoza — and he delivered. With representatives from the Las Vegas Raiders in attendance, Mendoza used Indiana Pro Day to make a powerful statement, strengthening his case to be the No. 1 overall pick. From sharp throws to confident command, everything about his performance suggested a quarterback ready for the next level. For teams searching for a franchise leader, moments like this carry serious weight — especially when decision-makers are watching up close. The Raiders’ presence only added intrigue, fueling speculation about their intentions at the top of the draft. As buzz builds, Mendoza is quickly shifting from prospect to centerpiece of the conversation. But standout performances come with rising expectations. And one specific element of his Pro Day is what scouts are talking about most. It might be the factor that ultimately separates him from the rest of the class.

BLOOMINGTON, IN — The Raiders have been careful not to prematurely anoint Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the…

News • 4 months ago

Jason Kelce isn’t holding back — and this time, his comments are aimed straight at the Detroit Lions. The former star sparked buzz after roasting the franchise for what he sees as a repeat of a controversial retirement situation that previously left fans furious with ownership. By bringing it back into the spotlight, Kelce has reignited debate around how the organization handles major player decisions. For Lions supporters, it’s a sensitive topic — one tied to past frustrations and lingering questions about leadership choices. Kelce’s remarks have quickly made the rounds online, with fans both agreeing and pushing back on his take. As the conversation grows, attention is shifting back to the decision itself and whether lessons were truly learned. But one specific comparison Kelce made is what’s drawing the most attention. And it might explain why this issue still resonates so strongly today.

The Detroit Lions have threatened to damage their relationship with former center Frank Ragnow after…

News • 4 months ago

A troubling incident has put former Dallas Cowboys player Trysten Hill back in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Hill was arrested following allegations of assault involving a pregnant woman, with details from the incident quickly sparking outrage online. Images reportedly showing him smiling after the arrest have only intensified reactions, adding another layer of controversy to an already serious situation. As the case unfolds, questions are being raised about accountability and the broader issue of off-field conduct among professional athletes. Legal proceedings are expected to determine what actually happened, but the public response has been swift and emotional. For many, the focus remains on the severity of the allegations and the impact beyond football. But one specific detail in the arrest report is what’s drawing the most attention. And it could play a key role in how this case develops.

Former Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Trysten Hill was arrested in Texas for allegedly assaulting a…

News • 4 months ago

A surprising announcement has left fans stunned as a former quarterback for both the New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals has abruptly retired at just 31. The decision came with an emotional message, reflecting on the journey, the challenges, and the “lifelong bonds” formed along the way — a reminder that the game is about far more than what happens on the field. While the move may feel sudden, it highlights the reality many players face as they weigh physical toll, personal priorities, and life beyond football. Fans are now looking back on his career, appreciating moments that may have gone under the radar at the time. Teammates and supporters alike have begun sharing reactions, emphasizing the impact he had inside locker rooms. But one part of his farewell message is what’s resonating the most. And it offers a deeper glimpse into why he chose to walk away now.

FORMER NFL quarterback Chris Streveler has retired from football. The 31-year-old former New York Jet announced Tuesday…