Dan Campbell and the Detroit Lions were the best team in the NFL during the 2024 season. However, they were unable to win a game in the playoffs.
After compiling a 15-2 record throughout the regular season, the Lions were quickly defeated at home by the red-hot Washington Commanders in the Divisional round of the playoffs. That loss has sat with them all offseason.
Despite the pain of the loss, Detroit is expected to be one of the top Super Bowl contenders in the league again in 2025.
As the season continues to draw closer, the Lions still have an incredibly talented roster. They also have key players, such as Aidan Hutchinson, back from injuries that knocked them out before the playoffs.
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While the roster is looking impressive once again, there is room to add more depth. One area of need could be the pass rush, especially to protect from potential injuries like the team dealt with last year.
Keeping that in mind, Za'Darius Smith, who is currently a free agent, has shown major interest in returning to Detroit. Of course, he was acquired from the Cleveland Browns ahead of the trade deadline last year and finished the season with the Lions.
During a recent interview with USA Today, Smith made it clear where he wants to play.
"We both know where I want to be," Smith said. "Hopefully, I can get back to Detroit because the coaching staff and everybody in the front office are great. When I'm there, I feel like a leader and like I can influence the young guys and do great things. Hopefully, I can get back to where I want to be in Detroit."
Smith also talked about how he thinks he could help Hutchinson continue improving.
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"I'm still a veteran. He's still a young guy. I can help him with many things. He's already great, but as a player, there are some tools that I know that I can help him with," Smith said. "And there are some things as a young guy that he can help me with."
Most of this situation will depend on the financial aspect of it. Smith may need to take a discount if he wants to play in Detroit.
This vocal interest from Smith in the Lions could hint at a willingness to take less to play for the franchise. Only time will tell, but this is a potential fit to watch for Detroit.
For more Detroit Lions and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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