Za’Darius Smith, the three-time Pro Bowler, is back in the NFL after a short retirement, signing a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons worth up to $8 million. You gotta wonder what brings a guy back so fast, right? Well, the Falcons’ pass-rushing group has been absolutely decimated by injury and suspension in camp, forcing their hand to get immediate help.
The Rookie Disaster That Demanded a Veteran
Talk about a nightmare scenario for Atlanta’s defense. They were banking on their 2025 first-round EDGE picks to bring the heat, and both are gone for huge chunks of the season. On August 4, promising Jalon Walker tore his ACL in a non-padded practice. Just ten days later, on August 15, the NFL dropped an eight-game suspension on James Pearce Jr. for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. Pearce’s situation stemmed from a domestic dispute, leading to felony charges that were dismissed after an agreement, but the league still came down hard. Losing *both* your top rookie pass rushers before Week 1? That’s just brutal.
Za’Darius Smith Steps Up to Save the Day
In steps Za’Darius Smith, the 33-year-old veteran with 70.5 career sacks, including nine in 2024. The dude retired in October 2025 after playing only five games with the Eagles, but his visit to the Browns last week was a clear sign he wasn’t done. Now he’s in Atlanta, and they desperately need his experience. Without Walker and Pearce, their Week 1 EDGE depth chart relies on guys like Samson Ebukam with 35 sacks and Azeez Ojulari with 22 career sacks. Smith’s 70.5 sacks immediately make him the most proven pass rusher on that roster, hands down.
Smith’s immediate impact is critical for a Falcons team that needs pressure. Can he get up to speed fast after his brief retirement? With Walker out for the season and Pearce missing half of it, Smith isn’t just an addition, he’s a necessity. This is a big gamble for Atlanta, but when options are scarce, you make a move. All eyes are on Smith to see if he can truly save this pass rush from being a liability.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
Leave a Reply