Eagles’ Za’Darius Smith Announces Unexpected NFL Retirement
Philadelphia, PA – Oct. 13 – Philadelphia Eagles edge rusher Za’Darius Smith abruptly announced his retirement from the NFL today, just weeks after signing a one-year contract with the team. The 33-year-old’s decision comes as a surprise, ending an 11-year career that saw him develop from a late-blooming high school athlete into a three-time Pro Bowler.
Smith shared the news in a reflective Instagram post, detailing his journey and expressing gratitude for the opportunities football provided. “I knew this day would come, but now that it’s here, I’m feeling so many emotions I never expected,” Smith wrote alongside photos from throughout his career. ”Who would’ve thought that a kid from Greenville, AL, with just one year of high school football experience, would go on too play professional football in the NFL for 11 astonishing years!”
The timing of the retirement is notably notable, coming days after the Eagles’ loss to the New York Giants on October 9th. Smith appeared in five games this season, recording 1.5 sacks, 10 tackles, and two starts. Throughout his career, wich included stints with the Baltimore Ravens, Green bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns, and Detroit Lions before joining the Eagles, Smith totaled 10 forced fumbles, 343 tackles, 70.5 sacks, 98 starts, and 16 passes defensed across 145 games.
While smith did not disclose the reason for his decision, reports indicate it is a personal one unrelated to his time with the Eagles.Sports journalist Dianna Russini reported the retirement “is a personal one” and “has nothing to do with the Eagles.” Reporter Jason Dumas recalled a previous conversation with Smith where he dismissed the idea of retirement, stating, “No way.I have a lot of football left in me.”
The unexpected announcement quickly sparked reactions from fans and analysts alike. One user on X wrote,”Za’Darius Smith can’t be retiring right now? What is going on??” Smith’s departure leaves a void in the Eagles’ defensive line and marks the end of a notable career for the veteran pass rusher.
