BEREA, Ohio (WKBN) - ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting that veteran pass rusher Za'Darius Smith is signing a free agent deal with the Atlanta Falcons. According to the report, Smith is receiving a one-year deal worth $6 million, with an additional $2 million in incentives. He reunites with former Browns' head coach Kevin Stefanski, who is now the head coach in Atlanta. Smith worked out for the Cleveland Browns on Thursday. The three-time Pro Bowler appeared in five games with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2025 before abruptly announcing his retirement. Smith previously played for the Browns for two seasons from 2023-24. The Browns traded him to Detroit in 2024, and he appeared in eight games with seven starts for the Lions. Smith was originally acquired by Cleveland in an offseason trade with the Vikings in 2023. He appeared in 25 games with the Browns from 2023-24 and recorded 50 tackles, 10.5 sacks and one forced fumble. In addition to his stints in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia, Smith has also played for the Ravens, Packers, and Vikings. In 11 seasons in the NFL, Smith has amassed 70.5 sacks with ten forced fumbles in 145 games. Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
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Report: Veteran pass rusher spurns Browns to sign with another team
BEREA, Ohio (WKBN) - ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting that veteran pass rusher Za'Darius Smith is signing a free agent deal with the Atlanta Falcons. According to the report, Smith is receiving a one-year deal worth…
BEREA, Ohio (WKBN) - ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting that veteran pass rusher Za'Darius Smith is signing a free agent deal with the Atlanta Falcons. According to the report, Smith is.
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