Za’Darius Smith is expected to ink a deal with the Browns as early as Sunday, marking a truly wild return to the team and the entire league itself. Talk about a curveball nobody saw coming! After working out for the team just earlier this week, reports from Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com say this veteran defensive end is ready to suit up again. This isn’t just a routine signing; it’s a storyline throwing everything we thought we knew about his status right out the window.
From Retirement to Roster in a Flash
How often do you see this? Za’Darius Smith had us all convinced his NFL chapter was done. He signed with the Eagles last September, a big move for a proven pass rusher, then just a month later in October, announced his retirement. A month! That’s a lightning-fast turnaround. The Eagles released him from their reserve/retired list earlier this year, seemingly closing that door for good. His cleats felt officially hung up, career etched. Yet, here he is, working out for a familiar team, now expected to sign. What reignited that spark to come back? Competitive drive? Chance to chase QBs again? Whatever it is, the Browns are getting a player with deep passion. This kind of reversal is absolutely wild, adding a fascinating layer to the early regular season.
The Sack Master’s Return to Cleveland
This isn’t Smith’s first dance in Cleveland, making the reunion even more interesting. He played for the Browns in 2023 and 2024, not just filling a roster spot. He was a force, racking up 10.5 sacks across 25 games. That’s clutch production, consistently disrupting offenses and making life miserable for opposing QBs. After his run, he was traded to the Lions after 2024. Now, for him to circle back to Cleveland? It feels like a movie. Beyond his Browns time, he’s built an impressive resume across the league, playing for the Ravens, Packers, and Vikings. He’s a proven sack artist with a staggering 70.5 career sacks. That kind of sustained elite performance is rare, speaking volumes about the talent and motor he brings.
What does this shock return mean for the Browns as the regular season gets rolling? They’re bringing back a veteran presence, a proven playmaker for their defensive line. Adding a pass rusher with Smith’s history and knack for disruption could be an immediate boost. All eyes will be on how quickly he gets back into game shape and what kind of impact those 70.5 career sacks can still deliver. This could easily be one of the most impactful, and certainly most surprising, signings in the early NFL season. Get ready, because Za’Darius Smith is back!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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