Three-Time Pro Bowler Shares Heartbreaking Reason for Abrupt Retirement

Atlanta Falcons defensive end Za Darius Smith announced his return to the NFL for the upcoming season after unexpectedly retiring last year while with the Philadelphia Eagles. The 27-year-old player made the heartbreaking decision to step away from the game in October of 2025 to be with his ailing mother. According to Smith, his mother's doctor informed him that she did not have much time left to live, which prompted his retirement.

After losing his grandmother and father in subsequent months, Smith found solace in football, calling it his "happy place."

Last month, Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry approached Smith, urging him to reconsider his decision to retire. Smith admitted that his mother's passing, along with the loss of his grandmother and father, left him in a "dark place." However, he acknowledged that playing football helped him regain his happiness. Despite working out with the Browns and nearly signing with them this season, Smith's contract with the team fell through due to financial reasons.

The Atlanta Falcons, who recently lost their edge rusher Jalon Walker and suspended James Pearce Jr., saw an opportunity to bring in Smith. The Falcons were eager to secure a veteran replacement, and Smith's familiarity with the team, having previously played for the Browns and been coached by Kevin Stefanski in 2023-2024, made him a good fit. Additionally, Atlanta's proximity to Smith's hometown of Montgomery, Alabama, was a factor in his decision to rejoin the team.

Smith expressed his gratitude for his mother's wishes for him to play for the Falcons. He plans to transport his mother's church family to the team's home games using two Greyhound buses. Smith signed a one-year, $6 million deal with the Falcons for the upcoming season.