# Za’Darius Smith signs with Atlanta Falcons

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/cleveland-browns-pursuit-of-zadarius-smith
> Updated: 2026-08-26T23:58:38.000Z. Sources: 18. Developments: 4.

Veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith has signed a one-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons, worth $6 million with incentives potentially reaching $8 million. The move marks Smith’s return to the NFL following a sudden retirement during the 2025 season.

Before signing with Atlanta, Smith participated in a workout with the Cleveland Browns, who were seeking veteran depth following the trade of Myles Garrett. While rumors initially suggested a return to Cleveland was imminent, Smith clarified via social media that he had further workouts scheduled. He ultimately chose to reunite with head coach Kevin Stefanski in Atlanta.

Smith’s signing addresses critical depth issues for the Falcons’ pass rush, following a season-ending ACL injury to Jalon Walker and an eight-game suspension for James Pearce Jr. The 33-year-old, a three-time Pro Bowler with 70.5 career sacks, joins a rotation that includes players like Jared Verse and Alex Wright.

Regarding his abrupt departure from the league last season—which occurred just five games into a contract with the Philadelphia Eagles—Smith revealed the decision was driven by significant personal tragedies. He disclosed that he experienced the rapid loss of his mother, grandmother, and father, noting he was in a “dark place” at the time. Smith stated that playing football is his “happy place” and mentioned his mother had always wanted him to play for Atlanta.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-26: Za'Darius Smith reveals personal tragedies behind 2025 retirement

Za'Darius Smith revealed that a series of family deaths, including his mother, grandmother, and father, prompted his abrupt 2025 retirement from the Philadelphia Eagles. He has since signed with the Atlanta Fal

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zadarius-smith-reveals-personal-tragedies-behind-2025-retirement

### 2026-08-18: Atlanta Falcons sign veteran Za’Darius Smith

The Atlanta Falcons have signed three-time Pro Bowler Za’Darius Smith to a one-year deal, ending his retirement to bolster a depleted defensive line.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/atlanta-falcons-sign-veteran-zadarius-smith

### 2026-08-16: Za’Darius Smith signs with Atlanta Falcons after Browns rumors

Three-time Pro Bowler Za’Darius Smith has signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons, choosing a reunion with coach Kevin Stefanski over a potential return to the Cleveland Browns.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cleveland-browns-expected-to-sign-edge-rusher-zadarius-smith

### 2026-08-13: Cleveland Browns host Za'Darius Smith for workout

The Cleveland Browns are considering a reunion with veteran pass-rusher Za'Darius Smith, who recently worked out for the team as he explores an NFL comeback following his retirement.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cleveland-browns-host-workouts-for-veteran-free-agents

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Cite as: Za’Darius Smith signs with Atlanta Falcons. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/cleveland-browns-pursuit-of-zadarius-smith