Lions Eyeing Pro Bowl Pass Rusher for Defense Overhaul
In a bid to revamp their defense, the Detroit Lions are reportedly considering adding three-time Pro Bowler Za’Darius Smith to their edge-rushing group. The move is seen as a way to provide veteran leadership alongside standout Aidan Hutchinson. Smith, a former Cleveland Browns player, is being touted as an “under-the-radar” addition. With several veterans expected to leave in free agency, the Lions are expected to make significant changes to their pass-rushing group this offseason. Julian Okwara has already joined the Philadelphia Eagles, and both Romeo Okwara and Charles Harris are free agents. Smith, who has recorded 15.5 sacks over the last two seasons, could be a productive veteran seeking one last shot at a Super Bowl.
Smith’s potential addition has garnered little attention ahead of the start of free agency in March. Despite his dropoff in performance in 2023, where he recorded only 5.5 sacks and 27 total tackles, Smith’s track record makes him an intriguing option for the Lions. Playing alongside the more productive Myles Garrett may have impacted Smith’s individual statistics. However, his experience and potential for a bounce-back season make him an attractive prospect.
Excitement Surrounds Lions’ Potential Defensive Boost
After securing a playoff-clinching win, Za’Darius Smith received praise from Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. Schwartz was so impressed that he urged Smith to celebrate with fans by running a lap around the stadium. Smith happily obliged, showcasing his enthusiasm and dedication to the game. This display of passion further solidifies Smith’s potential as a valuable addition to any team, including the Lions.
As the Lions gear up for an overhaul of their defense, the addition of Za’Darius Smith could provide the necessary spark. His leadership, experience, and proven ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks make him an ideal candidate to bolster the Lions’ pass rush. With Smith’s potential arrival, the Lions could be one step closer to their Super Bowl aspirations.
Smith Could Be Strong Addition for Struggling Team
In a surprising twist, the Detroit Lions may have found a solution to their pass-rushing woes. Despite their struggles to find a consistent player opposite Hutchinson, there is hope with the potential addition of Smith. Hutchinson, in his second year, had an impressive 11.5 sacks, accounting for nearly 30% of the team’s total. However, no other player on the team managed to surpass 5 sacks throughout the year.
According to Risdon, Smith possesses the much-needed consistency that the rest of the defensive unit lacks. Although he is no longer the Pro Bowler he once was during his time with the Packers, Smith remains an effective outside-in pass rusher. He demonstrates an ability to finish plays in the backfield and maintains positional discipline.
Having signed a lucrative three-year, $42-million contract with the Minnesota Vikings two years ago, Smith’s price tag has likely decreased since then. After a one-year stint with the Browns, where he signed a $10.5-million deal, Smith could potentially be a more affordable option for the Lions.
The Lions have already begun addressing their defensive needs by signing Mathieu Betts, a standout player from the Canadian Football League (CFL). Betts, the former Most Outstanding Defensive Player in the CFL, recorded an impressive 18 sacks in 18 games for the B.C. Lions last year. Despite having offers from other NFL teams, Betts ultimately chose the Lions due to their continued interest in him.
Betts’ agent, Sasha Ghavami, believes that Detroit is the perfect fit for his client. He describes Betts as a high-energy, high-motor player who will give his all on the field. Ghavami also emphasizes that Betts sees this opportunity as a chance to prove himself in the NFL and is confident in his abilities.
The potential addition of Smith and the signing of Betts could be the boost the Lions need to strengthen their defense. With Smith’s experience and Betts’ impressive CFL performance, the Lions may finally find the pass-rushing solution they have been searching for.
According to the Source heavy.com