Emotional Za'Darius Smith explains why he left NFL, and why he's back

Za Darius Smith, a former Green Bay Packers pass rusher, has returned to the NFL by signing a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons. This move comes just five days after Smith turns 34 years old. In an emotional press conference alongside Falcons reporters, Smith shared the reason for his retirement from the NFL in 2025 after just five games with the Philadelphia Eagles.

According to Smith, a phone call from his mother's doctor who informed him that his mother had a limited time left to live prompted his decision to retire. This loss of his mother was followed by the loss of his grandmother, and eventually, his father. Smith's emotional press conference was described by many as one of the most moving he had witnessed.

Born in Montgomery, Alabama, Smith expressed that his mother had always wanted him to play for the Falcons. He added that he felt he had found his "happy place" with this move. Smith admitted he had been in a dark place before making this decision, but joining the Falcons would bring him joy and the thrill of winning and making sacks.

During his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, Smith played 70½ games and accumulated 26 sacks over three seasons. However, he had previously played for the Packers from 2019 to 2021, with his 2021 season being limited by injury. Smith joked at the press conference that he would love to reach 100 career sacks.

Smith's choice to rejoin the NFL was supported by his friend, nine-year veteran Wallace Gilberry. Smith stated that Gilberry helped him through the difficult time of losing family members. The Falcons, who have faced injuries and suspensions on their defensive front, saw an opportunity to add a veteran like Smith to strengthen their roster.