Eagles enhance pass-rush with Za’Darius Smith signing after Lions’ oversight
The Philadelphia Eagles have made a significant move to strengthen their pass-rush in the wake of their Week 1 triumph over the Dallas Cowboys. Veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith, formerly of the Detroit Lions, is set to join the Eagles on a one-year deal, as reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The financial specifics of the agreement have yet to be disclosed, but Smith took to Instagram to confirm the signing.
A tumultuous tenure
Smith’s 2024 season saw him split time between the Lions and the Cleveland Browns, having been traded to Detroit at the trade deadline. In his brief stint with the Lions, he managed to rack up nine sacks, showcasing his ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks.
However, the Lions made the surprising decision to release Smith earlier this offseason. General manager Brad Holmes explained that the move was driven by financial constraints. “It was an amicable decision,” Holmes stated. “We couldn’t afford it, is the bottom line… That was my communication with him, and he understood that.”
Missed opportunities for a reunion
Despite the initial interest from both sides for a potential reunion, the situation took a turn. Smith openly expressed his desire to return to Detroit, and Holmes acknowledged the team’s interest in re-signing him. Yet, head coach Dan Campbell’s remarks hinted at a different direction, stating, “Well, we’re good right now.”
This statement didn’t sit well with Smith’s girlfriend, Detroit rapper Kash Doll, who publicly responded to Campbell’s words, indicating the rift between the player and the organization. “Hey coach, we’re good,” she wrote on Instagram, reflecting the disappointment surrounding Smith’s departure.
Potential repercussions for the Lions
The Lions’ decision not to retain Smith may prove to be a costly error. With limited depth at the edge rusher position and concerns over the injury history of starter Marcus Davenport, the Lions could find themselves in a precarious situation as the season progresses.
Now, with Smith heading to Philadelphia, he joins a formidable squad that could very well hinder the Lions’ ambitions for a Super Bowl run. As the Eagles bolster their defensive front, the ripple effects of Detroit’s miscalculation could be felt throughout the season.
