Colts Eyeing Za'Darius Smith as Key Replacement for Odeyingbo

After losing edge rusher Dayo Odeyingbo to the Chicago Bears in free agency, the Indianapolis Colts are looking to fill the void on their defensive line — and a prime target has emerged. Enter Za'Darius Smith, a cap casualty from the Detroit Lions, who’s being predicted as the perfect replacement for Odeyingbo.

Smith's Departure From Detroit Raises Eyebrows

In a surprising move, the Detroit Lions parted ways with Smith, despite him recording nine sacks last season. As one of the league’s more reliable pass rushers, Smith’s release raised some eyebrows. The decision stemmed from the Lions’ inability to afford his $11 million salary for 2025, and it left Smith available on the open market.

A Perfect Fit for the Colts' Defense

For the Colts, the opportunity to sign Smith represents an immediate boost to their pass rush. After adding cornerback Charvarius Ward and safety Camryn Bynum to strengthen their defense’s back end, Indianapolis now needs help on the edge. Smith would provide just that, offering experience, proven production, and leadership.

Despite being a bit older, Smith still performed admirably in his half-season with Detroit, tallying four sacks, three tackles for loss, and 10 quarterback hits in just eight games. His consistent performance over the years — with 5.5 or more sacks every season since 2018 — makes him a valuable asset, even as he nears the latter stages of his career.

Smith’s Contract Situation: A Smart Investment for the Colts

With $21.8 million in cap space, the Colts are well-positioned to sign Smith to a deal that matches the $11 million he was set to earn in Detroit. Given his track record and the Colts’ pressing need for edge rush help, this could be a move that pays immediate dividends for their defense.

A Strong Edge for the Colts' Future

Smith’s addition would not only replace Odeyingbo but potentially elevate the Colts’ pass rush to a new level, providing a veteran presence alongside rising stars on the defensive line. With the Colts already making key moves this offseason, Smith could be the final piece in a much-needed defensive upgrade.