Detroit Lions mailbag: Za’Darius Smith’s effects on the depth chart and strategy.
ANALYSIS:
As generated significant excitement, and for good reason. The veteran pass rusher, formerly of the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings, brings both an immediate upgrade to the Lions’ defense and a shift in their overall strategy.
Depth Chart Impact
Smith’s addition immediately strengthens the Lions’ edge rusher position. Detroit had been thin in terms of proven pass rushers outside of Aidan Hutchinson, so Smith’s presence offers a strong complement to the second-year standout. This will allow Hutchinson to focus on generating pressure from various spots on the defensive line without bearing the full burden of being the only elite rusher.
In terms of the depth chart, Smith will likely slot in as the starting edge opposite Hutchinson. This pushes the current contributors down a peg. Charles Harris, who had a solid 2021 campaign, could see fewer snaps, but still plays a role in rotation. Likewise, rookie linebackers and defensive linemen could see fewer reps in passing situations, as Smith can be used in various packages, whether it’s a 4-3 base alignment or more aggressive 3-4 looks.
Strategic Adjustments
Defensively, Smith’s arrival allows defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn to get more creative with his blitz schemes and defensive fronts. Smith is a versatile pass rusher who can operate both as a stand-up linebacker or with his hand in the dirt. This flexibility gives Glenn the option to disguise blitzes, create mismatches, and confuse opposing quarterbacks with unpredictable rushes.
Smith’s ability to win one-on-one battles with offensive tackles also takes pressure off the interior defensive line, giving players like Alim McNeill and Isaiah Buggs more space to disrupt plays up the middle. This could improve the Lions’ ability to generate consistent pressure without having to send extra defenders. Additionally, Smith’s veteran experience helps elevate the overall intelligence of the pass rush, where situational awareness and advanced techniques can be just as valuable as raw athleticism.
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Finally, having a consistent second pass rusher alongside Hutchinson could help the Lions’ secondary, too. With opposing quarterbacks forced to get rid of the ball faster, Detroit’s cornerbacks and safeties will benefit from quicker passes and more opportunities for interceptions.
In short, Smith’s presence not only strengthens the Lions’ pass rush but opens up multiple strategic avenues for Aaron Glenn to explore, potentially transforming Detroit into a much more aggressive and disruptive defense.
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