Lions to Release Veteran DE Smith, Source Says
In a surprising move, the Detroit Lions are set to release veteran defensive end, Michael Smith, according to a source familiar with the situation. The decision to part ways with the 32-year-old Smith comes as a shock to many, given his experience and leadership within the Lions’ defense over the past few seasons.
Smith, who joined the Lions in 2018 after being drafted by the team in the first round, had developed into one of the core members of the defensive line. Over his seven-year career in Detroit, Smith accumulated 42 sacks, 12 forced fumbles, and 98 tackles. His leadership in the locker room and his ability to consistently disrupt opposing quarterbacks made him a staple of the Lions’ defense.
However, the Lions’ front office has been undergoing a period of transition, with new general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell working to reshape the roster. While Smith’s talent was undeniable, the Lions’ defense has been underperforming in recent seasons, and the team is looking to add more youth and speed to its defensive line. The decision to release Smith is part of the franchise’s broader rebuilding strategy as they work to improve their overall depth and performance on defense.
The move also opens up significant cap space for the Lions. Smith was due to earn a substantial salary in 2025, and by cutting ties with him, Detroit gains more financial flexibility to pursue other key players, both in free agency and the upcoming draft. Given the emphasis on building through the draft, it’s expected that the Lions will focus on adding younger, more dynamic talent to their defensive line.
Though Smith is no longer in the prime of his career, there will undoubtedly be interest from other teams looking to add a seasoned veteran with a proven track record. Several contenders are likely to consider Smith as a potential rotational piece, especially teams with a need for a veteran presence in their defensive line rotation. The former first-round pick still has the ability to contribute at a high level, even if his role shifts to that of a situational pass rusher.
Detroit’s decision to part ways with Smith is not just about performance; it’s also indicative of the Lions’ changing philosophy under Campbell and Holmes. Both have been vocal about their desire to build a team that is tough, fast, and aggressive, and Smith, despite his leadership, no longer aligns with the direction the franchise is heading in. The Lions are expected to prioritize versatility and speed in their next phase of roster construction, and they will likely target younger, more athletic players who can contribute to the pass rush in a more dynamic manner.
Smith’s departure leaves a significant void in the defensive line, and the Lions will need to address the position through both free agency and the draft. While the team still has some solid pieces, including defensive tackle Alim McNeill and linebacker Jack Campbell, the loss of Smith will require a fresh approach to filling the pass-rushing role.
This move is a clear signal that Detroit is not content with maintaining the status quo. The team is actively reshaping its defense, and while the decision to release Smith may be tough, it demonstrates that the Lions are committed to long-term success rather than short-term fixes. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on how Detroit chooses to fill the gap left by Smith and further solidify their defense moving forward.
