Detroit Lions EDGE Za’Darius Smith is wearing number 99. Last assigned to Brodric Martin. #OnePride
Detroit Lions EDGE Za’Darius Smith is wearing the iconic number 99, a jersey number that Detroit fans may remember was last worn by Brodric Martin. This shift to number 99 by Smith, a seasoned NFL pass-rusher, highlights his role as a new defensive leader for the Lions. With this change, Smith takes on a number that carries a certain weight, especially among fans who’ve closely followed the Lions’ evolving roster and defensive line.
Brodric Martin, the defensive tackle out of Western Kentucky, wore number 99 as a rookie and showed potential during his limited time on the field. Although Martin was not a standout in his initial season, he represented Detroit’s commitment to developing younger players to strengthen their defense from within. The Lions have been cultivating a solid defensive line, and Martin was among those counted on to bring depth. However, he faced challenges adapting to the demands of the professional level, and the number 99, which has been associated with some notable players over the years, became available again with the arrival of Smith.
Za’Darius Smith brings a different level of experience to the Lions’ defense. With a strong career as a sack specialist and Pro Bowl player, Smith has shown he’s capable of making an immediate impact. Before joining the Lions, he played for the Green Bay Packers, where he established himself as one of the premier EDGE defenders in the NFC North, and the Minnesota Vikings, further strengthening his reputation. Smith’s move to the Lions was welcomed by fans who have eagerly awaited a more aggressive defensive approach to complement the team’s potent offense. By choosing number 99, he’s signaling his intention to bring a new level of intensity and leadership.
For Lions fans, #OnePride is more than a hashtag; it’s a call for unity, loyalty, and a shared hope for the team’s resurgence. Smith’s choice of 99 signifies his ambition to embody the fierce spirit that fans expect from Detroit defenders. In taking on this number, he joins the Lions’ #OnePride culture, where fans are ready to rally behind any player willing to play with heart and intensity. The excitement surrounding Smith’s addition to the Lions’ roster isn’t just about his skills but about his potential to help reshape Detroit’s defense into a more formidable unit.
Smith’s choice reflects his readiness to lead and contribute significantly, as the Lions look to end their playoff drought and make a deep postseason run. His veteran presence, paired with number 99’s legacy, adds a layer of anticipation for a Lions defense that aspires to mirror the intensity of its fanbase.
Za’Darius Smith stood in front of his new locker, grinning as he held up his freshly minted No. 99 Detroit Lions jersey. It had been a whirlwind few weeks since joining the Lions, but for him, wearing this particular number was about more than just a fresh start.
A group of reporters gathered around, and the question came quickly: “Why No. 99?”
Za’Darius’s smile softened as he looked down at the number. “I chose 99 to honor one of the hardest workers I ever knew: my granddad,” he said. “He worked in construction his whole life, putting in long days, just grinding it out, day in and day out. He wore his work shirt till it was practically threads, and right there, stitched into the pocket, was No. 99—his worker ID.”
Za’Darius took a breath. “Every time I suit up, I’m going to remember his grit. That man taught me what real toughness looks like, and that’s exactly what I’m bringing here to Detroit.”
The crowd was quiet for a moment before they began to nod in appreciation. For Za’Darius, No. 99 wasn’t just a number; it was a promise—to himself, his family, and his new team.