The Detroit Lions will aim to at least repeat their performance from last NFL season. If they can improve the results, even better. To achieve this, both the coaching staff and management are shaping the roster that will represent them, and the latest news reveals the departure of a key player for Dan Campbell, who will no longer be under his command moving forward.
At the beginning of November last year, ZaāDarius Smith joined the Lions in a trade from the Cleveland Browns. After just over a year in Detroit, the defensive end has finally been released by the franchise, and his future from now on will be elsewhere.
The news was reported by NFL insider Tom Pelissero, who, using his X (formerly Twitter) account, shared the final decision made by the Lions regarding Smithās situation in the league.
āThe #Lions released ZaāDarius Smith, per source,ā the insider reported via @TomPelissero.
ZaāDarius Smith #99 of the Detroit Lions while playing the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field on January 05, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.
The experienced DE entered the league after being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens. After three seasons with the franchise, he moved on to the Packers, before wearing the jerseys of the Vikings, Browns, and finally, the Lions.
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Dan Campbellās Lions secure key teammate for Jared Goff ahead of the 2025 NFL season
The restructuring in Detroit
After having a very strong campaign last season, despite falling short of the ultimate goal of reaching the Super Bowl, the challenge now is to maintain a competitive team that can live up to the circumstances. In light of this, the Detroit Lions are making interesting roster moves to help Jared Goff ahead of the 2025 NFL season.
First of all, Marcus Davenport will remain under Dan Campbellās command after extending his contract with the franchise: āSource: The #Lions are bringing back edge rusher Marcus Davenport on a 1-year deal worth up to $4.75M. After injuries robbed him of most of last year, Detroit takes another shot to run it back,ā Ian Rapoport reported via @RapSheet.
Another one of the teamās experienced linebackers, Derrick Barnes, will also be with his teammates for one more year, aiming to take his team to the final game of the upcoming season.
What is expected from the Lions next season?
Of course, from management to the coaching staff and the roster, all the way to the fans, everyone in Detroit has one goal in mind: reaching the Super Bowl. The recent campaign set the bar very high, so matching that performance will not be easy at all.
An interesting draft lies ahead with top prospects, as well as an offseason where major talents have become free agents, allowing them to negotiate their arrival with any team.
It remains to be seen what the short-term plans are for the Lions, who will aim to build a solid and competitive roster that can dominate the NFC North once again and be a serious title contender.
