The Detroit Lions are signing UDFA Jackson Meeks—who just so happens to be the nephew of free agent EDGE Za’Darius Smith.
The Detroit Lions are reportedly adding an undrafted rookie who has a unique connection to another NFL player. Per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Lions are signing former Syracuse and Georgia wide receiver Jackson Meeks to an undrafted rookie contract that includes $200,000 guaranteed. What makes this move even more notable is that Meeks is the nephew of free agent defensive end Za’Darius Smith.
Za’Darius Smith became a free agent after the Detroit Lions released him, a move that saved the team $11 million over the next two seasons. Lions general manager Brad Holmes explained that the decision was based strictly on financial reasons, and he left the door open for Smith’s possible return. When Holmes last addressed the media about the situation, he indicated the next move was up to Smith.
“I think we left it where his agent would reach out if there were any developments or updates,” Holmes said two weeks ago.
Meanwhile, Jackson Meeks is coming off a breakout year at Syracuse, where he caught 78 passes for 1,021 yards and scored seven touchdowns in 2024. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 213 pounds, Meeks could eventually contend for the Lions’ WR-X role. For now, though, he’ll need to secure a roster spot through his special teams contributions, an area where he has significant experience, including playing on the punt coverage unit last season.
