Falcons Land Za’Darius Smith on 1-Year Deal
Za’Darius Smith Joins the Atlanta Falcons: A Simple Guide to What Happened
The Big News in Plain English
Imagine you’re picking teams for a game of tag at recess. One of the fastest kids — let’s call him Za’Darius — was supposed to join the Cleveland team. But at the last minute, he changes his mind and signs up with the Atlanta team instead. That’s basically what just happened in the NFL!
Za’Darius Smith, a veteran defensive player, has signed a one-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons. This was a surprise because everyone thought he was going back to the Cleveland Browns.
Who Is Za’Darius Smith?
Think of him like a superhero for the defense.
A defensive end is a player whose job is to stop the other team’s offense — especially the quarterback (the thrower). They line up on the edges and try to tackle the ball carrier or sack the quarterback (tackle him before he throws).
- Veteran player = He’s been in the NFL for many years (since 2015)
- Known for = Being really good at rushing the passer (getting to the quarterback fast)
- Previous teams = Ravens, Packers, Browns, Eagles
- Played for Browns in 2023–2024 under coach Kevin Stefanski
Why Did He Choose Atlanta Over Cleveland?
Here’s the story, step by step:
- Reports said Smith was expected to sign with the Cleveland Browns
- Then suddenly — he worked out for the Atlanta Falcons (like a tryout)
- The next day — he signed with Atlanta instead!
Why the switch?
- The Falcons really needed help at defensive end
- They lost two players this month:
- James Pearce Jr. → Suspended 8 games by the NFL (not allowed to play)
- Jalon Walker → Suffered a season-ending knee injury on August 4
- Atlanta likely increased their offer to convince Smith to join
- Smith knows Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski from their time together in Cleveland (2023–2024)
Important Point:
The Falcons didn’t just want any player — they needed depth. That means backup players who can step in and play well when starters get hurt or tired. Smith gives them exactly that.
Wait — Didn’t He Retire?
Yes! This is the plot twist in the story:
| Year | Team | What Happened |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Philadelphia Eagles | Signed a 1-year, $9 million deal |
| After 5 games | Eagles | Left the team and announced retirement |
| 2025 | Atlanta Falcons | Came out of retirement to play again! |
So Smith took a short break, changed his mind, and now he’s back — this time in a Falcons jersey.
What Does This Mean for the Falcons?
Instant experience — Smith knows how to play at a high level
Leadership — Veterans help younger players learn
Pass rush help — He can still get to the quarterback
Familiar system — He’s played for Coach Stefanski before
Summary
- Za’Darius Smith signed a 1-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons
- He was expected to re-sign with Cleveland but chose Atlanta after a workout
- The Falcons lost two defensive ends to suspension and injury
- Smith briefly retired last year but decided to return
- He reunites with coach Kevin Stefanski, who coached him in Cleveland
- The signing gives Atlanta much-needed depth and experience on defense
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
What is a defensive end?
A defensive end lines up on the outside of the defensive line. Their main jobs: stop running plays to the outside, and rush the quarterback on passing plays. Think of them as the "edge protectors."
What does "depth" mean in football?
Depth = having good backup players. Since football is violent and players get hurt often, teams need multiple players ready to play each position — not just starters.
Why did the Falcons lose two defensive ends so fast?
- James Pearce Jr. broke NFL rules → 8-game suspension (league punishment)
- Jalon Walker tore a ligament in his knee → out for the whole season
Both happened in early August — right before the season starts.
Is Smith too old to help?
He’s a veteran (mid-30s), but he played well in Cleveland the last two years. Veterans often contribute smart play, leadership, and technique — not just speed.
What’s a "one-year deal"?
A contract for just the 2025 season. Low risk for the team, chance for Smith to prove he’s still got it. If he plays well, he could sign again next year — or somewhere else.
Ready for the season? So are the Falcons — now with a little more muscle on the edge.