Seattle continues to chase veteran edge-rushers this offseason to boost a defense that struggled to generate pressure in Week 1 of the preseason. DeMarcus Lawrence was signed earlier, and with Uchenna Nwosu on the PUP, the Seahawks are weighing additional veteran firepower. The shortlist centers on Jadeveon Clowney, Za'Darius Smith and Preston Smith, each offering a different flavor of impact—Clowney’s proven burst, Za'Darius' high-energy sacks ability, and Preston's reliable production in past seasons. The goal is to pair one of these veterans with Lawrence and Nwosu to create a more versatile, rotating edge group while the defense grows chemistry. Seattle still faces cap considerations and age-related risk, but the potential upside for a defense that logged only one sack in that Week 1 game against Las Vegas remains compelling.

Clowney previously tied to Seattle in 2019 and has shown double-digit sack potential in recent years; Za'Darius Smith generated nine sacks split between Browns and Lions last season, still carrying fast-twitch juice; Preston Smith posted eight-to-nine sacks across 2021-2023 before a midseason trade, remaining a capable rotational option. A reunion or a fresh landing for any of these veterans could shift Seattle’s edge strategy from a committee approach to a more dynamic pressure unit, especially if Nwosu returns closer to full health. The Raiders game context underscores Seattle’s urgency: edge production and a sturdier rush plan will be critical as the defense develops ahead of the season.

Za’Darius Smith could be headed back to Detroit, a reunion that would immediately reshape the Lions’ defensive ceiling. After releasing him to free cap space, Detroit has kept the door ajar, citing his experience and proven pressure ability. The move hinges on a two-way agreement: Smith wants back in, Detroit wants a dependable edge opposite Aidan Hutchinson, and Holmes has to balance cost with fit. If Smith signs, the Lions’ front line becomes far more dangerous on third downs and late-game passing reps, potentially pushing Detroit into the upper tier of sacks leaders and altering fantasy value for IDPs in the division.

Smith produced consistent QB pressure across splits between the Lions and Browns last season, finishing with more sacks than all Lions defenders besides Hutchinson. Hutchinson already provides a high floor, but a Smith reunion would give Detroit a true two-man edge dynamic, increasing the defense’s overall disruption and giving fantasy managers a clearer path to multiple sack games from both players. The Lions chase a ring, and adding veteran heft at rush end could be the catalyst that lifts a young unit into legitimate contender status.

From a fantasy and betting angle, the potential signing raises Lions defenders’ ceilings across the board. Hutchinson’s sack ceiling could rise further as teams double Smith, opening lanes for both pass rushers. It also changes how coaches deploy sub-packages and how opposing offenses prepare for Detroit’s edge pressure. If Detroit lands Smith, expect immediate headline impact and a notable shift in IDP targets across fantasy rosters that count sacks and QB hits.

Timing and cap math remain the wild card. A deal hinges on Smith’s health, camp readiness, and how Detroit structures the contract to preserve flexibility. Either way, the defense gains a pulse and fantasy managers should watch every update out of Detroit’s camp and facility chatter for signals of a completion and the exact role Smith would play from Week 1.

As the Detroit Lions prepare for the upcoming season, general manager Brad Holmes addressed the critical topics surrounding defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and the possibility of re-signing Za'Darius Smith. While the Lions have plans to initiate discussions about Hutchinson's extension, Holmes made it clear that these talks haven’t intensified yet. With Hutchinson under contract through 2026 at a hefty $19.8 million fifth-year option, his potential deal could mirror those of top-tier defensive ends like T.J. Watt and Myles Garrett.

Furthermore, the conversation touched on the potential reunion with Smith, who contributed significantly last year while filling in for an injured Hutchinson. Holmes acknowledged that while both the team and Smith's representatives have expectations, the path to any agreement will require careful negotiations to align their interests.

The landscape of NFL free agency is brimming with intriguing possibilities as we approach the 2025 training camps. A wealth of talent awaits, many of whom can step in and make immediate impacts for their new teams. For instance, Gabe Davis is poised to elevate the Las Vegas Raiders' receiving corps, while Noah Fant could rejuvenate the New York Giants' tight end position. Veteran receiver Keenan Allen is suggested for the Pittsburgh Steelers to bolster their offense alongside Aaron Rodgers.

Notable defensive talents are also on the market, with Za'Darius Smith likely rejoining the Detroit Lions for another shot at the Super Bowl. The Miami Dolphins are eyeing cornerbacks Asante Samuel Jr. and Mike Hilton to strengthen their secondary after the departure of Jalen Ramsey. These potential moves highlight the dynamic nature of NFL free agency, setting the stage for a thrilling 2025 season.

The Cleveland Browns find themselves in a challenging financial position as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season, with a staggering $66.5 million allocated to dead money related to 14 players no longer on the roster. This amount primarily stems from prior contracts that did not yield the desired outcomes, including high-profile signings that fell flat and trades that left the team carrying unfulfilled obligations. The most significant portions of this dead money come from players like Amari Cooper, Za'Darius Smith, and Jedrick Wills, who represent a significant drain on the team's salary cap.

As the Browns navigate this financial landscape, the implications stretch beyond mere accounting; they influence decisions on future acquisitions and the overall roster strategy. With the team still tied to these costly contracts, management must be strategic in their approach to the upcoming draft and free agency, all while attempting to maximize the potential of current players like Deshaun Watson. The situation emphasizes the challenges franchises face in balancing competitive success against financial viability.