In a candid reflection on the Detroit Lions’ ongoing roster management, General Manager Brad Holmes recently opened up about the team’s current situation with linebacker Za’Darius Smith. Despite the high-level production Smith brought to his previous teams, Holmes made it clear that the Lions couldn’t afford Smith’s current contract as it stands. However, Holmes also expressed optimism by stating that the Lions are continuing to keep in touch with Smith’s agent, leaving room for potential negotiations that could lead to a more affordable deal.
Za’Darius Smith, who has been one of the more disruptive pass rushers in the NFL, found himself in a rather intriguing position this offseason. Known for his elite ability to pressure quarterbacks, Smith’s contract situation has been a topic of conversation in Detroit, and Holmes’ statements only add fuel to the fire. But what does this all mean for the Lions? Let’s break it down and analyze the intricacies of this potential move.
The Current Contract Situation: A Financial Jigsaw Puzzle
Za’Darius Smith, 31, has had a rollercoaster ride in terms of his NFL career. After being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2015, Smith hit free agency in 2019 and signed a lucrative four-year, $66 million contract with the Green Bay Packers. His time in Green Bay was marked by impressive performances, including a Pro Bowl selection and multiple double-digit sack seasons. Smith became one of the NFL’s premier edge rushers, and his contract reflected that success.
However, after an injury-riddled 2021 season, Smith was released by the Packers in a move that saved them significant cap space. The Minnesota Vikings quickly swooped in and signed Smith to a three-year, $42 million contract in 2022. In his first season with the Vikings, Smith once again showcased his elite pass-rushing skills, recording 10 sacks, despite the team’s overall struggles.
As Smith’s contract currently stands, he carries a hefty cap hit, which the Lions find difficult to absorb, especially given their own financial constraints and other priorities. According to reports, the Lions are dealing with limited cap space and have several key positions they need to address, including the defensive line, offensive line, and quarterback.
The Lions’ Financial Constraints
Detroit has made significant strides in recent years to turn around its roster. Under the guidance of Brad Holmes, the Lions have managed to build a competitive team, especially in the areas of offense and defensive line. Yet, like every NFL team, the Lions are operating within the confines of the salary cap. As of now, the Lions have some flexibility but are far from flush with cap space.
Holmes has been diligent about finding value in free agency and making shrewd trades, and this year has been no different. However, the Lions also face several key financial decisions. The team has several significant contracts to manage, especially when it comes to players like quarterback Jared Goff, defensive star Aidan Hutchinson, and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. The team has made it clear that it’s committed to long-term success and will not jeopardize its future for short-term gains.
Za’Darius Smith’s current contract, however, doesn’t seem to fit into the Lions’ vision of balancing immediate impact with long-term flexibility. With Smith counting for a large cap hit, it’s no surprise that Holmes would prefer to find a way to restructure or renegotiate the deal. Simply put, the Lions can’t afford to take on Smith’s full financial commitment in its current form.
Holmes’ Optimism and Negotiations with Smith’s Agent
Despite the financial challenge, Brad Holmes did not shut the door on a potential move for Za’Darius Smith. Instead, he noted that the team has been in touch with Smith’s agent, suggesting that there is room for discussion and perhaps a renegotiation of terms. For fans, this provides hope that the Lions could land the veteran pass rusher at a price that works for both sides.
This is not uncommon in the NFL. Teams often have to balance the need for immediate help with the long-term health of their roster. In Smith’s case, it could mean a contract restructure or an outright release followed by a re-signing at a reduced rate. Alternatively, the Lions could explore a trade with the Vikings or other interested teams, provided they are able to absorb a portion of Smith’s current salary.
Holmes’ decision to keep the lines of communication open with Smith’s camp is a prudent one. It reflects the Lions’ overall philosophy of flexibility and opportunity. It also shows that the front office is aware of the importance of pass-rushing and the impact a player like Smith could have on the Lions’ defense.
Smith’s Role with the Lions
From a football perspective, the addition of a player like Za’Darius Smith would be a major boost for the Lions. Detroit has been building its defensive line around young stars like Aidan Hutchinson, but adding a veteran edge rusher with Smith’s pedigree would only elevate the unit. Smith’s ability to disrupt quarterbacks and apply pressure in critical moments would complement Hutchinson, who has already shown flashes of greatness during his young career.
Additionally, Smith’s experience in high-stakes situations, including playoff appearances and Pro Bowls, could provide invaluable leadership to a Lions defense that is still in the process of finding its identity. A proven leader on the field could also have a positive influence on the team’s younger defenders, helping them develop and adjust to the demands of NFL-level play.
While Hutchinson is undoubtedly the future of the Lions’ pass rush, having a complementary piece like Smith could make all the difference in Detroit’s push for contention in the NFC North. The Lions’ defense needs a consistent pass rush to keep opposing offenses off-balance, and Smith would provide just that.
The Potential Impact of a Trade
While Holmes has mentioned that the team couldn’t afford Smith’s current contract, there remains the possibility that a trade could occur. A trade involving Za’Darius Smith would be a bold move, but it’s something that the Lions should seriously consider if they want to add a proven pass rusher to their defense without the heavy financial burden.
However, the timing of such a move could be tricky. The Lions would need to identify a trade partner willing to take on Smith’s existing contract or work out an arrangement in which they would absorb a portion of the cap hit. Additionally, the Vikings would likely want some compensation for trading Smith, which could include draft picks or players. Detroit would need to evaluate the cost of such a trade relative to the value Smith could bring.
Given the Lions’ aggressive approach to team-building under Holmes, a trade for a player of Smith’s caliber would not be outside the realm of possibility. It could be a pivotal move that bolsters the defense and gives the Lions a significant edge in the NFC North race.
A Broader Look at the Lions’ Defensive Needs
To fully appreciate the potential impact of adding Za’Darius Smith, it’s important to understand where the Lions currently stand defensively. While the team has made great strides, particularly with the emergence of young players like Hutchinson, the defense is still a work in progress.
The Lions finished 2022 ranked 30th in total defense, but there were significant improvements over the course of the season. Detroit added key players in the secondary, and the defensive line began to show flashes of promise. With a solid draft class in 2023 and more depth in the front seven, the Lions’ defense is on the rise.
However, the team still needs more help in terms of pass rush and the ability to create pressure on opposing quarterbacks.