Former Ravens three-time Pro Bowler defensive end Zadarius Smith will likely be a cut candidate this offseason. According to a few reports, the Lions may release Smith but be open to bringing him back on a new contract. Originally selected in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, the former Kentucky product came into the Lions lineup in a trade to help become another pass rusher when star Aidan Hutchinson went down with a season-ending injury. Detroit could release him to save more than $5 million in savings with no dead cap after becoming a temporary defensive help in Hutchinson’s absence.
They probably don’t need him anymore since Hutchinson will return to his starting role unless they desire to keep him in the fold. However, the Lions are one of the several teams that could pursue Browns defensive star Myles Garrett so if this happens then that should put the icing on the cake. Despite that, Smith should have a market either way as Smith is still capable enough to be an efficient disruptor in the trenches. He won’t earn a long-term but a safety net deal for a team that needs some insurance on the defensive front.
Former Ravens Three-Time Pro Bowler Zadarius Smith Likely Cut Candidate – 5 Teams May Emerge as Suitors
Possible Next Teams
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens easily could get back in the AFC Championship Game if the defense had more balance after losing Jadeveon Clowney in the offseason last year. They have a weak side in the defensive trenches so they might settle bringing back Smith on a veteran contract to provide some relief. Nnamdi Madubuike is still the best defender in that unit but he needs more help filling up the gaps and getting after the quarterback. This would make life easier for Kyle Van Noy and Roquan Smith to ram through the holes and make a play.
New Orleans Saints
The quarterback department unit looks bleak for the Saints this offseason as they could release Derek Carr. Chase Young will be in a new uniform as Cameron Jordan is aging and on the brink of a release too. Smith might have the same gas but he’s easily the best rental that could make an impact since the Saints don’t have the financial space to trade for a superstar pass rusher.
Los Angeles Chargers
Nobody loves playing a physical defense game more than head coach Jim Harbaugh. Other than free agent Khalil Mack, Poona Ford had one of the most phenomenal seasons so the team could look to re-sign him. Since the Chargers have money to burn, they should sign Smith to give Ford some relief on the opposite end of the trenches if he comes back.
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders are probably in a better position than anyone in the league. With another offseason to pour money out, they could look to improve the pass rush further. While they may bring back Bobby Wagner, they might need to find a replacement for Dorance Armstrong. He had a decent season but nowhere near the level that Smith could provide.
Carolina Panthers
For the Panthers, they spent the entire offseason last year building a capable offense for quarterback Bryce Young. However, it’s time for the team to do the same for their defense as Derrick Brown will return to the lineup. They shouldn’t rush him so perhaps, the team should sign Smith as temporary relief on that defensive line.
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