Za’Darius Smith is currently a free agent. Could the pass-rusher sign with the Indianapolis Colts?
Destin Adams of AtoZSports wrote an article about free agents that could help the Colts’ defense. He listed Smith as someone they could add before training camp:
“First up would be a bit of luxury signing, but I think it would elevate their defense. Edge rusher Za’Darius Smith is still a free agent and is coming off a successful year with the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions, where he finished with nine sacks and 17 QB hits. He would give the Colts a higher floor pass rusher that would stand out above players like Kwity Paye and Samson Ebukam, who is coming off a torn Achilles.”
The Colts could use another edge-rusher. Does Za’Darius Smith make sense?
Three-Time Pro Bowler Za’Darius Smith was Listed as a Free Agent the Indianapolis Colts Could Sign
Looking Back at His Career
Za’Darius Smith played college football for two years at East Mississippi Community College. He then transferred to Kentucky, where he played his final two seasons. He had 60 tackles and 4.5 sacks during his senior year.
The Baltimore Ravens selected Smith in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft. During his four seasons in Baltimore, he produced 119 tackles, 18.5 sacks, and 52 quarterback hits. In Week 6 of the 2018 season, Smith had three sacks, earning him AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors.
Smith signed a four-year, $66 million contract with the Green Bay Packers in 2019. He had a career-high 13.5 sacks during his first season with the team. Smith made the Pro Bowl twice during his three-year stay in Green Bay. He was named a second-team All-Pro in 2020.
Za’Darius Smith signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2022. He was traded to the Cleveland Browns a year later. In 2024, he was traded to the Detroit Lions, who desperately needed pass rush help after losing Aidan Hutchinson to a leg injury. Detroit released Smith earlier this offseason.
Detroit Lions defensive end Za’Darius Smith (99) pressures Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) during the second half at Soldier Field in Chicago, Ill. on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024.
Should the Colts Sign Him?
In 2023, the Colts set an Indianapolis-era record with 51 sacks, ranking in the top five in the NFL. However, that number dropped to just 36 sacks (tied for 25th) last season.
Needless to say, the Colts’ pass rush needs to improve in 2025. So far this offseason, the team hasn’t made any huge moves in that department. They selected J.T. Tuimoloau in the second round of the draft. However, he might not be a big-time contributor right away.
Samson Ebukam, who missed a year due to injury, is set to return. Second-year defensive end Laiatu Latu could have a breakout season. Plus, Kwity Paye, who has 26.5 career sacks, is still around.
The Colts could still use pass-rushing help, though. Za’Darius Smith would be a good pickup. At 32 years old, he’s not the youngest player in the world. But he could provide veteran leadership. Smith is a three-time Pro Bowler who has had three seasons with at least ten sacks.
The Colts have re-tooled their defense this offseason. They’ve added players like Charvarius Ward and Camryn Bynum. Maybe Za’Darius Smith will be the next piece.
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