Za'Darius Smith is Looking for a New NFL Home

From surprising rookie to team captain for the Green Bay Packers, you can now describe Za’Darius Smith as an NFL “journeyman.”

Tom Pelissero reports the Detroit Lions have waived Za’Darius Smith. While it’s a bummer for his fans back in Big Blue Nation, it’s not exactly surprising news. The Lions sent the Cleveland Browns a seventh round pick in exchange for the pass-rusher in November after Detroit lost star EDGE Aidan Hutchinson to a season-ending injury. With their star preparing to return in 2025, there’s no need to keep Big Z around for another year.

The move to Detroit gave Za’Darius Smith an opportunity to potentially compete in a Super Bowl. The Lions had the best record in the NFL when they were upset in the Divisional Round by the Washington Commanders. He performed well during his brief stint, tallying 4.0 sacks, a dozen tackles, and a pass deflection in eight games.

The 32-year-old signed a two-year deal worth $23 million ahead of the 2024 season. He’ll be able to sign another relatively lucrative deal, but the free agent market is crowded for pass-rushers. Myles Garrett’s surprising extension with the Browns takes one player off the market, but the former Cat will be competing for a roster spot alongside Joey Bosa, Khalil Mack, Haason Redick, and Josh Sweat.

Za’Darius Smith was a fourth round pick by the Baltimore Ravens after the JUCO talent spent two years in Lexington. After four seasons in Baltimore, he became a team captain during his three years in Green Bay. He signed a nearly $50 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings and earned his third Pro Bowl selection during the 2022 season.

Big Z has played for every NFC North team except the Chicago Bears. In need of some defensive playmakers, it would be fitting if he landed in Chicago as he searches for his sixth different NFL team.

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