Detroit Lions Bring Back DB Saivion Smith

Defensive back Saivion Smith is back with Detroit Lions.

John Maakaron | Apr 17, 2023

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Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions have re-signed defensive back Saivion Smith.

Last season against the New England Patriots, the former Alabama Crimson Tide cornerback suffered a neck injury that ended his 2022 season.

The injury required surgery, which took place prior to the conclusion of the season. And, it was reportedly a successful operation.

“Yeah, I’m nervous,” Smith said, prior to his first major surgery. “It’s neck surgery. I’m nervous as hell. I ain’t never had no like real, hardcore surgery. But, yeah, I ain’t never really had no like hardcore surgery. I had a scope done on my ankle, but that was nothing serious. You know what I’m saying? No bones and repair and whatnot. But, I feel like I’m gonna be alright, God-willing.”

After undergoing disc surgery, the talented defensive back is ready to return and compete for a role in Aaron Glenn's defense.

Undrafted coming out of Alabama, Smith had stints with the Jaguars, Cowboys, Seahawks, Broncos and 49ers, prior to joining Detroit's roster in 2021. A large portion of his early career career has been spent on the practice squad.

Detroit is expecting healthy competition at the cornerback position this offseason, as the team parted ways with Jeff Okudah and signed three defensive backs during free agency.

The #Lions are re-signing versatile DB Saivion Smith, source said, an incredible comeback. Smith suffered a scary neck injury against the #Patriots in his first start, then had offseason disc surgery. Now healthy again, he’s back in Detroit.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 17, 2023

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Published Apr 17, 2023

JOHN MAAKARON

John Maakaron has covered Detroit Sports since 2013. Brings a vast array of experience covering the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Michigan Wolverines, Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Mercy Titans, and Oakland University Golden Grizzlies. John brings a wealth of sports broadcast experience. In 2013, John had the vision to establish the Detroit Sports Podcast Network. Has recorded over 3000 podcasts analyzing Detroit Sports. In 2019, Sports Illustrated Media Group, a historical sports media outlet, partnered with Detroit Sports Podcast to provide daily Lions content for their growing and expanding digital media outlet. Our Lions content can also be read in the newspaper at The Oakland Passionate about Detroit Sports and it is reflected in his coverage of the local teams!