Packers news: Za’Darius Smith wants to play rest of career in Green Bay
By John Buhler
Za’Darius Smith would be cool to spend the rest of his NFL career on the Green Bay Packers.
The last two years have left a long-lasting impression on him, as Za’Darius Smith wants “to be a Packer for life!” Will he get his opportunity to do so, though?
The Green Bay Packers outside linebacker has been a two-time Pro Bowler since arriving in Titletown as a free agent in 2019. The former fifth-round pick out of Kentucky by the Baltimore Ravens has emerged as one of the best pass rushers in football in Green Bay uniform. Smith has taken the opposing quarterback down a combined 26 times in just two seasons with the Packers.
Za’Darius Smith has two more years under contract with the Green Bay Packers
2021 will be Smith’s age-29 season out of Kentucky. If his next two years with the Packers are anything like the first two, he should have no issues securing a third NFL contract, one that will allow him to retire as a member of the Packers. In the midst of his athletic prime and playing for one of the best teams in the NFC, Smith understands fully that he is a great situation for himself.
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While there will be a period of adjustment with Joe Barry in his first year as the Packers defensive coordinator, Smith once again projects as a double-digit sack artist in 2021. Though it is expected that some of his athleticism will dissipate in his 30s, Smith seems to have it rolling in Green Bay. So if it were up to him, he would prefer to spend the rest of his pro career playing for the Packers.
Do not try to tell a player like Smith that Green Bay is not a free-agency destination anymore.