How The Detroit Lions Defense Could Surpass Philadelphia

ESPN just published a list of recommended final moves for each of the 32 NFL teams this offseason. With training camp looming, ESPN recommended one very obvious one for the Lions that might just make the Detroit defense even better than Philadelphia’s.   

The Philadelphia Eagles won the Super Bowl last year on the strength of their outstanding defense. It was a star-making performance by an extraordinary defensive unit that virtually shut down Patrick Mahomes, one of the most talented quarterbacks in NFL history, and kept the Kansas City Chiefs out of the end zone for most of the game.  

However, during the offseason, the Eagles lost many of those premier talents to free agency. Just as Detroit had to figure out a way to win games after losing multiple key defenders due to injury, the Eagles will have to find a way forward after losing players to free agency. LB Oren Burks signed a two-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. Prolific EDGE Josh Sweat signed a four-year agreement with the Arizona Cardinals. DE Milton Williams signed a four-year deal with the New England Patriots.  Talented Eagles (and former Detroit) cornerback Darius Slay signed a one-year agreement with the Pittsburgh Steelers.  Philadelphia’s defense was superb, and playing together as a unified group, they were the best in the NFL. While Vic Fangio’s group may still be among the best in the league, the loss of those core members will be noticeable. 

ESPN’s Recommendation for Detroit – Bring Back Edge Rusher, Za’Darius Smith

Per ESPN’s list, the one move Detroit needs to prioritize before training camp is re-signing EDGE Za’Darius Smith.  It seems like an obvious no-brainer. Smith fit right in with the team’s defense and made an immediate impact, contributing 12 tackles and four sacks in eight games. Smith was a positive force on and off the field, exemplifying the Lions’ team culture and exhibiting the desirable leadership of a seasoned Pro Bowl veteran.

However, Brad Holmes had to release him due to the heavy $11 million financial burden stemming from his contract with the Cleveland Browns. If the Lions retained him under his previous agreement, it would have cost the team $5.7 million this year with an additional $5.2 million as a “dead money” hit in 2026.  As a free agent, Smith has made no secret of the fact that his preferred landing spot is back in Detroit.  Speaking to USA Today earlier this month, Smith stated, “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.”

Impact of Smith On A Healthy Detroit Defense 

A year ago, Detroit’s defense was pieced together like a patchwork quilt. Less experienced replacement players, free agents, and Smith, a Pro Bowl talent acquired just before the trade deadline, came together to play well enough that the Lions won all but two games during the regular season.  How much better would a healthy Lions defense be this year with the addition of Smith in the lineup, playing opposite Aidan Hutchinson, the presumptive candidate for Defensive Player of the Year?  It’s a tantalizing prospect.

Just as the Kansas City offense couldn’t escape the smothering Eagles’ defense, the Lions’ opponents this season will be equally hard-pressed to score against the combined power of two of the NFL’s top EDGE rushers on the same line. Re-signing a premier defender like Smith may be the final piece of the puzzle that will grant Detroit access to the ultimate goal, a Super Bowl appearance.