Steelers Poach Crucial $11 Million Veteran Free Agent Away from Lions

Pittsburgh, PA – May 1, 2025 – In a stunning move that shakes up the AFC North, the Pittsburgh Steelers have signed veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith, a former Detroit Lions free agent, to a one-year, $11 million contract. The acquisition not only bolsters Pittsburgh’s pass rush but also delivers a blow to a divisional rival, as the Steelers capitalize on Detroit’s decision to release the three-time Pro Bowler earlier this offseason.

A Strategic Coup for Pittsburgh

The Steelers, coming off a 2024 season where they ranked 10th in the NFL with 44 sacks, have been aggressive in fortifying their defensive front. With T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith already forming one of the league’s premier edge-rushing duos, adding Smith addresses a critical need for depth and versatility. The 32-year-old’s signing comes at a pivotal moment, as Pittsburgh aims to reclaim supremacy in the AFC North following a competitive but inconsistent 2024 campaign.

Smith, who was cut by the Lions in March 2025 to avoid a $5.7 million cap hit and $5.2 million in void-year penalties, brings a wealth of experience and production. In 2024, he recorded nine sacks—five with the Cleveland Browns and four with the Lions after a midseason trade—along with 36 quarterback pressures in eight games for Detroit. His ability to play both edge and interior roles offers defensive coordinator Teryl Austin flexibility to create dynamic pressure packages, especially in third-down situations.

“Za’Darius is a proven playmaker who fits our identity,” said Steelers GM Omar Khan. “He’s a tone-setter, and we’re thrilled to add his veteran presence to our defense.”

Why the Lions Let Smith Walk

The Lions’ decision to release Smith was driven by financial constraints. His contract, originally a two-year, $23 million deal signed with the Browns, carried a $11 million total payout for 2025, including a $6.99 million option bonus due March 14. Detroit GM Brad Holmes admitted the team couldn’t justify the cost, stating, “We just weren’t in a position to keep him at his salary.” The Lions, with $49.5 million in cap space, have since explored other edge-rushing options like Khalil Mack and Von Miller but failed to secure a direct replacement for Smith.

Detroit’s pass rush struggled after losing star Aidan Hutchinson to a broken leg in October 2024, and Smith’s four sacks in eight games provided a temporary boost. However, with Hutchinson targeting a 2025 return and younger players like Levi Onwuzurike and Josh Paschal expected to step up, the Lions prioritized cap flexibility over retaining Smith, leaving the door open for a reunion that never materialized.

A Boost for Pittsburgh’s Defense

For the Steelers, signing Smith is a masterstroke. Their 2025 draft class, featuring defensive tackle Derrick Harmon and edge rusher Jack Sawyer, already strengthened the front seven, but Smith’s immediate impact elevates the unit to elite status. His 69 career sacks across stints with the Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Browns, and Lions highlight his durability and consistency. In Pittsburgh, Smith is expected to rotate with Highsmith and Watt, preserving their snap counts while mentoring younger players like Sawyer.

The financials also align. With $45 million in cap space, the Steelers could absorb Smith’s $11 million deal without significant restructuring. The one-year contract minimizes long-term risk, allowing Pittsburgh to evaluate Smith’s fit while maintaining flexibility for future moves, such as extending Watt or signing a veteran quarterback like Aaron Rodgers.

A Rivalry Rekindled

The signing adds fuel to the Steelers-Lions rivalry, though the teams rarely meet outside of non-divisional matchups. For Pittsburgh fans, poaching Smith from an NFC North contender is a satisfying jab, especially after losing cornerback Cameron Sutton to Detroit in 2023. On platforms like X, Steelers supporters are buzzing, with posts like “Za’Darius in black and gold? Lions fumbled the bag!” and “T.J. Watt and Za’Darius Smith? Good luck, AFC North QBs.”

Analysts are equally enthusiastic. “Smith’s a perfect fit for Pittsburgh’s aggressive, physical defense,” said Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “He’s not just depth—he’s a game-changer who can push this unit over the top.” Some, however, caution that Smith’s age and the Lions’ willingness to let him go raise questions about his long-term durability.

What’s Next for Smith and the Steelers?

For Smith, joining the Steelers offers a chance to compete for a Super Bowl with a perennial playoff contender. His familiarity with the AFC North, having played for the Ravens and faced Pittsburgh as a Packer and Viking, ensures a seamless transition. Early reports from Steelers OTAs suggest Smith has already bonded with Watt, with the two sharing tips on pass-rush techniques.

For the Lions, Smith’s departure exacerbates their edge-rushing woes. Without a clear replacement opposite Hutchinson, Detroit may rely on unproven talents or pursue a lower-cost veteran like Matthew Judon, who has been linked to the team. The loss stings, as Smith’s playoff experience with the Ravens and Packers could have stabilized Detroit’s young defense.

As the 2025 season looms, the Steelers’ signing of Za’Darius Smith sends a clear message: Pittsburgh is all-in on reclaiming AFC dominance. With a revamped defense and a chip on their shoulder, the Steelers are poised to make noise—and Smith’s arrival ensures their pass rush will be heard loud and clear.