Following the 2025 NFL Draft, Sterling Xie of Pro Football Network projected the Bears as the top suitor for veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith, a key Lions free agent unexpectedly cut this offseason due to salary cap constraints. The Lions released Smith despite his productive 2024 campaign, where he posted nine sacks and brought consistent edge pressure.
Why the Bears Need Smith: Depth, Disruption, and Defensive Flexibility
- Chicago’s defensive line has solidified its starters with Montez Sweat, Dayo Odeyingbo, and Grady Jarrett.
- Despite strong frontline talent, depth on the edge remains thin.
- Smith’s versatility—able to shift inside or outside—would allow DC Dennis Allen to experiment with aggressive blitz packages and manage snap counts.
As Xie put it, “Adding Smith could not only control the snap counts of the starters but also allow Allen to get creative with his pass rush packages.”
Detroit Lions Still Open to Reunion—But Can They Afford It?
Though Smith was released due to cap issues, Detroit has not ruled out bringing him back. GM Brad Holmes stated plainly that the Lions “couldn’t afford him,” though the need at edge rusher remains unresolved after a draft that didn’t meaningfully address the position.
With Smith likely commanding around $11 million, the same figure he was set to earn with Detroit, the Lions would need major cap maneuvering to strike a deal.
Bears Have the Cap Room—Barely
The Bears currently sit on $10.5 million in cap space, just shy of what Smith may seek. But a few restructuring moves or back-loaded incentives could make the deal work.
Adding Smith to a trio with Odeyingbo and Sweat would give Chicago one of the most dynamic pass rush groups in the division—and would signal an aggressive effort to catch the Lions in the NFC North race.
FAQ: Za’Darius Smith, Bears, and Lions Free Agency
Why did the Lions cut Za’Darius Smith?
Detroit couldn’t afford Smith’s $11M cap hit for 2025 and opted to release him despite a productive 2024 season.
Do the Bears have enough cap space to sign Smith?
Yes—barely. With $10.5M in cap space, Chicago could sign Smith with a creative contract structure.
Is Detroit still trying to bring Smith back?
Yes. While the Lions haven’t closed the door on a reunion, cap limitations remain a major obstacle.
How would Smith impact the Bears’ defense?
He’d add proven pass-rushing ability, depth, and flexibility to a unit already featuring Montez Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo.
