The Philadelphia Eagles are adding another veteran to their already-deep defensive line. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, former Detroit Lions defensive end Za’Darius Smith has signed a one-year deal with the Eagles.
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Smith, 32, is coming off a 2024 campaign where he recorded nine sacks, bringing his career total to 69 sacks across stints with the Ravens, Packers, Vikings, Browns, Lions, and now the Eagles.
The move comes just ahead of Philadelphia’s highly anticipated Super Bowl rematch against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs, adding more firepower to a defense that already thrives on getting after the quarterback.
Smith spent part of last season in Detroit after being acquired via trade. While his time with the Lions was brief, fans pushed for a reunion this offseason as Detroit looked to add depth behind Aidan Hutchinson. Instead, head coach Dan Campbell made it clear the Lions were “good right now” with their defensive line rotation, pointing to Marcus Davenport, Tyleik Williams, and DJ Reader as key pieces moving forward.
The Eagles, meanwhile, see Smith as a plug-and-play pass rusher who can provide immediate impact off the edge.
For Lions fans, it’s another reminder of what could have been, but for Philadelphia, it’s a win-now signing that bolsters their defense in one of the league’s toughest conferences.