History of Za'Darius Smith in Timeline

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

September 8, 1992: Za'Darius Smith's Birth

On September 8, 1992, Za'Darius Smith was born. He is an American professional football defensive end.

Others born on this day/year

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.

January 17, 2015: East-West Shrine Game

On January 17, 2015, Za'Darius Smith played in the East-West Shrine Game, where he recorded two tackles and one sack and was named the most valuable defensive player as the East defeated the West 19-3.

January 24, 2015: Reese's Senior Bowl

On January 24, 2015, Za'Darius Smith participated in the Reese's Senior Bowl, contributing to the North team's 34-13 victory over the South.

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.

September 29, 2019: Citation for Marijuana Possession and Speeding

On September 29, 2019, Za'Darius Smith was cited for possession of marijuana and speeding in a construction zone. He cooperated with the officer and hired a lawyer who entered a plea of not guilty on both charges.

July 30, 2020: Charges Dismissed

On July 30, 2020, the Racine County prosecutor dismissed the charges against Za'Darius Smith for possession of marijuana and speeding.

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 named to the 2020 All-Pro Team second team.

July 28, 2021: Placed on NFI List

On July 28, 2021, Za'Darius Smith reported to Packers' training camp with a back injury and was placed on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list.

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.