The Philadelphia Eagles have unexpectedly lost a key member of their defense, as veteran pass-rusher Za’Darius Smith has decided to retire.
Smith revealed in a social media post on Monday that he is calling it a career. The 33-year-old wrote that he is “feeling so many emotions I never expected” and thanked the fans and organizations that he played for.
“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,” Smith wrote. “Football has transformed my life and my family’s lives forever — and for that, I’m forever grateful. …
“… 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.”
Smith had been in his 11th NFL season. He signed a one-year deal with the Eagles a day after the team beat the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1. Smith appeared in all five games since he signed with Philadelphia and had 10 total tackles and 1.5 sacks.
Smith was with the Detroit Lions last season. He had 4 sacks and 12 tackles in 8 games. He indicated in June that his preference was to return to the Lions, but a deal with them did not materialize. Smith then waited to sign with a new team because he did not want to take part in training camp.
A former fourth-round draft pick, Smith began his NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens, then played for the Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns and Lions. He has 70.5 sacks in his career and made the Pro Bowl in 2019, 2020 and 2022.
