Could the Lions Lose a Key Piece to an NFC North Rival?

As the Detroit Lions prepare for what fans hope will be another record-setting season, questions are starting to surface—especially about the team’s defense. With quarterback Jared Goff leading a solid offense, the Lions appear poised for success. But there are still some gaps to fill, particularly in their pass-rushing department.

With the NFL’s 2025–26 season kicking off in September and minicamp just around the corner in July, the clock is ticking for front offices to finalize rosters. For Detroit, this will be the first season without their standout coordinators: offensive mind Ben Johnson and defensive leader Aaron Glenn. Johnson, in particular, has joined the coaching staff of the rival Chicago Bears—a shift that could have unexpected consequences.

One concern? Johnson could lure away a player the Lions arguably need the most in 2025.

Za’Darius Smith on the Move?

The Lions have one of the league’s top edge rushers in Aidan Hutchinson. But Hutchinson, who’s returning from injury, can’t carry the load alone. That’s why pass-rushing depth remains one of Detroit’s biggest needs heading into the new season.

Last year, when Hutchinson was sidelined, general manager Brad Holmes made a smart move by trading for veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith. Smith didn’t disappoint—his presence helped solidify the defensive line and played a key role in getting the Lions to the postseason despite a series of injuries across the roster.

Now, Smith is a free agent—and he’s made it crystal clear where he wants to be.

“We both know where I want to be,” Smith said in a recent interview with USA Today. “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.”

Despite Smith’s enthusiasm, the Lions haven’t yet re-signed him. And that’s where the drama starts to unfold—because another familiar face might step in and scoop him up.

Ben Johnson and the Bears Lurking

According to a July 3 article by Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder, Smith is one of the top remaining defensive free agents, and there’s real buzz about where he could end up. Holder notes that Smith has been “linked to the Bears, via Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer,” and suggests a reunion with Ben Johnson in Chicago could be on the horizon.

That scenario would sting for Lions fans. Pairing Smith with standout edge rusher Montez Sweat in Chicago’s defense could create serious problems for Detroit. Holder writes, “With Dayo Odeyingbo taking the early-down responsibilities and sliding inside in passing situations, Smith would be a great complement on the edge with Montez Sweat.”

Of course, there’s still a chance Smith stays put. Holder also points out, “Sometimes it’s just best to stay where you are. The Lions clearly got production out of Smith, whom they acquired in a midseason trade. He was just a salary-cap casualty this offseason.”

A Decision That Could Shape the Season

Smith returning to Detroit would undoubtedly strengthen a Lions defense that will be tested heavily this year. As ESPN’s Eric Woodyard reports, the team is scheduled for five prime-time games in 2025, including their traditional Thanksgiving Day clash against the Packers on November 27 and a Christmas Day game in Minnesota. With so much national attention, the pressure to perform is sky-high.

The question now is: will Detroit act quickly enough to bring back a proven leader and difference-maker? Or will a former coach swoop in and strengthen a rival with the very player the Lions should have locked down?

Only time will tell—but the stakes couldn’t be higher.