History of Za'Darius Smith in Timeline
Za'Darius Smith is an American professional football defensive end currently playing for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL draft after playing college football at East Mississippi and Kentucky. In addition to the Eagles and Ravens, he has also played for the Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns, and Detroit Lions. His career has been marked by moving around to several teams as a productive pass rusher.
September 8, 1992: Za'Darius Smith Born
On September 8, 1992, Za'Darius Smith was born. He is an American professional football defensive end.
January 17, 2015: East-West Shrine Game Appearance
On January 17, 2015, Za'Darius Smith played in the 2015 East-West Shrine Game, recording two combined tackles and one sack. He was recognized as the game's most valuable defensive player after the East team's 19-3 victory over the West.
January 24, 2015: Reese's Senior Bowl Appearance
On January 24, 2015, Za'Darius Smith participated in the Reese's Senior Bowl, contributing to the North team's 34-13 win over the South.
May 8, 2015: Signed by Baltimore Ravens
On May 8, 2015, Za'Darius Smith signed a four-year contract with the Baltimore Ravens worth $2.76 million, which included a signing bonus of $483,152.
September 20, 2015: NFL Regular Season Debut
On September 20, 2015, Za'Darius Smith made his NFL regular season debut for the Baltimore Ravens during a 37-33 loss to the Oakland Raiders, recording one solo tackle.
October 1, 2015: First Career Sack
On October 1, 2015, Za'Darius Smith recorded a season-high four solo tackles and made his first career sack on Steelers’ quarterback Michael Vick during a 23–20 overtime win against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
March 14, 2019: Signed with Green Bay Packers
On March 14, 2019, Za'Darius Smith signed a four-year, $66 million contract with the Green Bay Packers.
September 29, 2019: Cited for Marijuana Possession and Speeding
On September 29, 2019, Za'Darius Smith was cited for possession of marijuana and speeding in a construction zone after being stopped by police in Racine County. He admitted to owning the paraphernalia. The charges were later dismissed on July 30, 2020.
December 21, 2020: Pro Bowl Selection
On December 21, 2020, Za'Darius Smith was selected for the 2021 Pro Bowl.
January 8, 2021: All-Pro Team Selection
On January 8, 2021, Za'Darius Smith was selected for the 2020 All-Pro Team second team.
July 28, 2021: Placed on Non-Football Injury List
On July 28, 2021, Za'Darius Smith reported to the Packers' training camp with a back injury and was placed on the Non-Football Injury list (NFI).
January 12, 2022: Practice Window Opened
On January 12, 2022, the Packers opened the practice window for Za'Darius Smith, allowing him to potentially return from injured reserve.
March 14, 2022: Released by the Packers
On March 14, 2022, Za'Darius Smith was released by the Green Bay Packers to save salary cap space.
March 22, 2022: Signed with Minnesota Vikings
On March 22, 2022, Za'Darius Smith signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings.
May 16, 2023: Traded to Cleveland Browns
On May 16, 2023, the Cleveland Browns traded for Za'Darius Smith.
March 13, 2024: Signed Contract Extension with Browns
On March 13, 2024, Za'Darius Smith signed a two-year contract extension with the Cleveland Browns.
November 5, 2024: Traded to Detroit Lions
On November 5, 2024, Za'Darius Smith was traded to the Detroit Lions.
March 9, 2025: Released by the Lions
On March 9, 2025, Za'Darius Smith was released by the Detroit Lions.
September 5, 2025: Signed with Philadelphia Eagles
On September 5, 2025, Za'Darius Smith signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles for $9 million.
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