In a stunning turn of events, former Detroit Lions pass rusher Za’Darius Smith -- who signed with the Philadelphia Eagles a day after the season opener -- has announced his retirement from the NFL.
Smith, who played 11 seasons in the league, made the announcement Monday morning via Instagram.
“I knew this day would come -- but now that it’s here, I’m feeling so many emotions I never expected,” Smith began. “Who would’ve thought that a kid from Greenville, AL, with just one year of high school football experience, would go on to play professional football in the NFL for 11 incredible years! This game has given me the opportunity to meet great coaches, compete alongside some of the best players ever, and represent some of the greatest organizations in the league. Football has transformed my life and my family’s lives forever — and for that, I’m forever grateful.
“This career has taken me across the world — from earning my first passport stamp to visit countries I only saw on maps, to helping me start a foundation that gives back to my community. There have been challenges along the way, but the rewards have outweighed them all and helped me learn, grow, and evolve as a man. ‘…For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required…’ – Luke 12:48.
“And to the fans — the biggest thank you of all. To every fan from each organization I represented: thank you, thank you, thank you for everything! From wearing my jerseys, collecting my cards, sending letters, sharing your opinions (good and tough ones alike), and most importantly — showing love. I felt it all. As I step into the newest season of my life, please know this game has meant the world to me. The lessons learned on and off the field will stay with me forever.”
In five games with the Eagles this season, Smith recorded three tackles and 1.5 sacks. While he flashed moments of being an asset during Philadelphia’s 20-17 win over the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 2, his snap count steadily decreased in the weeks that followed.
After being released by the Lions following the 2024 season, there was speculation about a potential reunion between the two sides before Smith ultimately signed a one-year deal with the Eagles.
Detroit, however, chose to move in another direction to address its pass rush. Head coach Dan Campbell notably said “we’re good” when asked about Smith -- a comment that stirred debate among fans after the team’s Week 1 loss to the Green Bay Packers.
The Lions acquired Smith at last season’s trade deadline from the Cleveland Browns. In eight games with Detroit, he totaled 12 tackles, four sacks, and one pass defended.
Over the course of his career, Smith also played for the Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings. He finishes his 11-year NFL run with 343 tackles and 70.5 sacks -- a career defined by perseverance, production, and leadership.
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