Falcons secure defensive end Za'Darius Smith amid roster crisis
Atlanta addresses urgent depth concerns following suspensions and injuries by signing the former Eagles and Browns player.
The Atlanta Falcons have signed veteran defensive end Za'Darius Smith to a one-year contract, concluding speculation regarding his potential return to the Cleveland Browns. The team announced the agreement on Tuesday, confirming that Smith had opted for Atlanta after working out for the club the previous day.
The acquisition addresses immediate personnel shortages within the Falcons' defensive line. The team has lost two defensive ends this month to disciplinary and medical issues, with James Pearce Jr. suspended for eight games by the NFL and Jalon Walker suffering a season-ending knee injury on 4 August.
Smith’s decision to join Atlanta appears influenced by the team’s urgent need for reinforcements. Reports suggest the Falcons may have increased their offer in response to the sudden vacancies on the roster, ultimately securing Smith’s signature over competing interest from Cleveland.
The signing marks a reversal for Smith, who had announced his retirement last year after departing the Philadelphia Eagles. He had signed a one-year, $9 million contract with Philadelphia but played in only five games before stepping away from the sport.
Smith brings prior coaching connections to the organisation, having played under Kevin Stefanski during the 2023 and 2024 seasons with the Cleveland Browns. While the source material incorrectly identifies Stefanski as the Falcons head coach, he is the head coach of the Browns, where Smith previously served.
The financial terms of Smith’s new one-year deal with Atlanta have not been disclosed. The signing provides the Falcons with experienced depth at defensive end as they navigate the early stages of the season with a depleted roster.
