Lions Encouraged to Ink $42 Million Defensive End for Revamped Edge Rush
The Detroit Lions made notable improvements to their defense in 2023, though their pass rush showed inconsistency.
As the Lions prepare for an overhaul of their edge-rushing unit this offseason, Jeff Risdon of USA Today suggests that adding a three-time Pro Bowler could complement standout Aidan Hutchinson effectively. Risdon highlights Za’Darius Smith, a former Cleveland Browns edge rusher, as a potential “under-the-radar” addition to provide veteran leadership, which the Lions will be lacking.
Risdon anticipates significant changes in the Lions’ pass-rushing group, with some veterans likely departing in free agency. He observes that with the Lions restructuring the EDGE position — Julian Okwara now in Philadelphia, and both his brother Romeo and Charles Harris being free agents — they might seek a more productive veteran aiming for one final shot at a Super Bowl, such as Smith.
Despite Smith’s impressive 15.5 sacks in the past two seasons, he hasn’t garnered much attention leading up to free agency in March. This lack of attention could be attributed, in part, to his decline in 2023, where he recorded only 5.5 sacks and 27 total tackles, playing alongside the more productive Myles Garrett.
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