Lions GM Brad Holmes said it was unfortunate but necessary to cut veteran DE Za’Darius Smith this year for the cash and cap savings. That said, he didn’t rule out bringing Smith back at a lower rate depending on how things unfold in the coming weeks with the draft and Smith’s market.

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. Smith had big shoes to fill but ultimately came up short as the rest of the defense's injuries were too much to overcome in the postseason.

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.