The Detroit Lions making a move to acquire veteran defensive end Za'Darius Smith in the middle of last season was applauded as the team felt like it was on a trajectory for greatness. The Lions traded a 5th-round pick in 2025 and 6th-round pick in 2026 to acquire Smith and a 2026 7th-round pick in November following the season-ending injury to Aidan Hutchinson.

On a few occasions this offseason, Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes has detailed the painstaking process that led to the acquisition of edge defender Za’Darius Smith at last

General Manager Brad Holmes has not ruled out a potential return for Smith in the future. PALM BEACH, Fla. – The Detroit Lions ' decision to cut Za'Darius Smith this offseason came down to one thing – money.