Za'Darius Smith released by the Green Bay Packers

Za’Darius Smith is looking for a new home. The former Wildcat has served as a defensive team captain throughout his three-year tenure in Green Bay. When free agency officially began on Monday, Adam Schefter reports the Packers released the Pro Bowler.

Za’Darius Smith had the option to stay at this year’s owed cash amount, but both sides ultimately agreed it was best to move on. With the release, he carries no compensatory selection implications, which will help his interest. https://t.co/0j1ZBUKFwm

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 14, 2022

Za’Darius Smith combined for 26 sacks in 2019 and 2020, the second of which he earned second team All-Pro honors and finished fourth in the league in sacks. A back injury over the summer derailed his 2021 campaign. He tried to play through the pain in the season-opener, then opted to have surgery. Smith rehabbed well enough to return for the playoffs and record a sack in the NFC Divisional Round, but the Packers lost 13-10 to the San Francisco 49ers.

Aaron Rodgers can be partially blamed for Za’Darius’ departure from Green Bay. They can’t pay everybody. The Packers also chose to keep the other Smith on the defensive line. Preston Smith signed a four-year extension worth $52.5 million.

In spite of the injury, Za’Darius Smith should have no trouble finding a new home. If Kansas City cannot reduce Frank Clark’s cap number, sources tell Pro Football Network the Chiefs will pursue Za’Darius. There’s also a chance he could return to the team that drafted him, the Baltimore Ravens. Even though nobody ever wants to get cut, this former Wildcat will have plenty of options as he searches for a new team, preferably one with a quarterback that does not choke in the playoffs.

Za’Darius was in Tampa for the SEC Tournament. Maybe he stuck around to talk with Tom Brady about winning another Super Bowl for the Bucs…