Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Za'Darius Smith

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Za'Darius Smith made an impact.

Za'Darius Smith is an American football defensive end known for his impactful NFL career. After playing college football at East Mississippi Community College and Kentucky, he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2015. Smith has showcased his talent while playing for several teams, including the Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions. He is recognized for his pass-rushing abilities and contributions to various defensive lines across the league.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2014: Senior Year at Kentucky

In 2014, as a senior, Za'Darius Smith recorded 60 tackles and 4.5 sacks for the University of Kentucky.

May 8, 2015: Signing with the Baltimore Ravens

On May 8, 2015, Za'Darius Smith signed a four-year, $2.76 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens, which included a signing bonus of $483,152.

September 20, 2015: Professional Debut

On September 20, 2015, Za'Darius Smith made his professional debut in a game against the Oakland Raiders, recording one solo tackle.

October 1, 2015: First Career Sacks

On October 1, 2015, Za'Darius Smith recorded a season-high of four solo tackles and achieved his first career sacks, totaling two, against Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback Michael Vick in an overtime win.

2015: NFL Draft

In 2015, Za'Darius Smith was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round of the NFL draft.

2016: 2016 Season

In the 2016 season, Za'Darius Smith played in 13 games for the Ravens, starting in four. He recorded 20 tackles, one sack, one pass defended, one forced fumble, and four quarterback hits.

2017: 2017 Season

In the 2017 season, Za'Darius Smith appeared in 14 games, starting in four. He recorded 24 tackles, 3.5 sacks, one pass defensed, one forced fumble and 16 quarterback hits.

2018: Career-High Season

In 2018, Za'Darius Smith had a career-high season. He recorded 45 combined tackles and 8.5 sacks. He led the Ravens in sacks and finished sixth on the team in tackles.

March 14, 2019: Signing with the Green Bay Packers

On March 14, 2019, Za'Darius Smith signed a four-year, $66 million contract with the Green Bay Packers.

January 12, 2022: Practice Window Opened

On January 12, 2022, the Packers opened the practice window for Za'Darius Smith, indicating his potential return from injury.

March 14, 2022: Release from the Packers

On March 14, 2022, Za'Darius Smith was released by the Packers to save $15.3 million in salary cap space.

March 22, 2022: Signing with the Minnesota Vikings

On March 22, 2022, Za'Darius Smith signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings.

May 16, 2023: Trade to the Cleveland Browns

On May 16, 2023, Za'Darius Smith was traded to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for two fifth round picks, a 2025 sixth-round pick and a 2025 seventh-round pick.