Za’Darius Smith Biography in English is an American football player known for his skillful performance as an outside linebacker and edge rusher in the National Football League (NFL). His career is marked by notable achievements, resilience, and versatility on the field. Hereโs a full biography of Za’Darius Smith, including his background, college career, NFL journey, and personal life, with key facts organized in a table for easy reference.
Table of Contents
- Early Life and Background
- College Career
- NFL Career
- Baltimore Ravens
- Green Bay Packers
- Minnesota Vikings
- Personal Life and Philanthropy
- Career Statistics and Awards
- Key Facts
Za’Darius Smith Biography in English
1. Early Life and Background
Za’Darius Smith was born on September 8, 1992, in Montgomery, Alabama. Growing up in Alabama, Smith was a multi-sport athlete and an enthusiastic football player. Unlike many of his NFL peers, Smith did not focus exclusively on football from a young age. In high school, he was more interested in basketball, but he eventually shifted his focus to football due to his natural size, strength, and athletic ability.
Smith played high school football at Greenville High School in Alabama. However, he wasnโt heavily recruited by major college football programs initially due to his relatively late start in the sport. After high school, Smith attended East Mississippi Community College (EMCC) to hone his football skills and pursue his goal of making it to the NFL.
2. College Career
After a standout two-year stint at EMCC, where he demonstrated his potential as a pass rusher, Smith transferred to the University of Kentucky to play NCAA Division I football. During his time with the Kentucky Wildcats, Smith quickly established himself as a dominant force on defense.
- Years Active: 2013 – 2014
- Position: Defensive End
- Statistics:
- Recorded 119 tackles and 11 sacks over two seasons
- Named to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) All-Freshman team
Smithโs impressive performance at Kentucky caught the attention of NFL scouts, positioning him as a potential draft pick.
3. NFL Career
Za’Darius Smith entered the NFL as a promising defensive talent with the size, power, and agility to succeed. He was drafted in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. His NFL career has since spanned multiple teams, including the Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings.
Baltimore Ravens (2015 – 2018)
- Drafted: 2015 NFL Draft (4th Round, 122nd Overall)
- Role: Backup Defensive End and Special Teams Contributor
- Notable Achievements:
- Recorded 5.5 sacks in his rookie season
- Developed as a solid pass rusher in a rotational role
- Concluded his Ravens career with a standout season in 2018, totaling 8.5 sacks and a forced fumble
Smithโs strong finish to the 2018 season made him a desirable free agent, leading him to sign with the Green Bay Packers.
Green Bay Packers (2019 – 2021)
Smith signed a four-year, $66 million contract with the Packers in March 2019, a move that would mark the beginning of the most productive period in his career.
- Breakout Season (2019): In his first season with the Packers, Smith recorded a career-high 13.5 sacks, along with 55 tackles and numerous quarterback hits. He was widely recognized as one of the best edge rushers in the league.
- Pro Bowl Honors: His stellar 2019 season earned him a Pro Bowl selection and made him a fan favorite in Green Bay.
- 2020 Season: Smith continued his dominant performance, recording another 12.5 sacks, and earned a second consecutive Pro Bowl selection.
Unfortunately, Smithโs time with the Packers was cut short due to a back injury in 2021, which sidelined him for most of the season. The Packers released him in March 2022 to create cap space, making him a free agent.
Minnesota Vikings (2022 – Present)
In 2022, Za’Darius Smith signed with the Minnesota Vikings, aiming to bring his pass-rushing prowess to the teamโs defensive unit.
- Immediate Impact: Smith quickly became a crucial part of the Vikings’ defense, recording impressive sack numbers and leading the team in quarterback pressures.
- Revenge Game: In his first game against his former team, the Packers, Smith recorded a sack, showing he was still a force to be reckoned with.
4. Personal Life and Philanthropy
Za’Darius Smith has made an impact off the field through his involvement in various charitable activities and initiatives. He has been known to participate in community service events and youth mentorship programs. Smith has also been an advocate for mental health awareness, encouraging others to prioritize mental well-being.
5. Career Statistics and Awards
| Year | Team | Games Played | Tackles | Sacks | Forced Fumbles | Pro Bowls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Baltimore Ravens | 15 | 30 | 5.5 | 0 | – |
| 2016 | Baltimore Ravens | 13 | 20 | 1 | 0 | – |
| 2017 | Baltimore Ravens | 14 | 24 | 3.5 | 0 | – |
| 2018 | Baltimore Ravens | 16 | 45 | 8.5 | 1 | – |
| 2019 | Green Bay Packers | 16 | 55 | 13.5 | 0 | 1 |
| 2020 | Green Bay Packers | 16 | 52 | 12.5 | 4 | 1 |
| 2021 | Green Bay Packers | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | – |
| 2022 | Minnesota Vikings | 16 | 48 | 10 | 0 | – |
6. Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Za’Darius Smith |
| Date of Birth | September 8, 1992 |
| Place of Birth | Montgomery, Alabama |
| Height | 6 feet 4 inches |
| Weight | 272 pounds |
| Position | Outside Linebacker, Defensive End |
| College | University of Kentucky |
| NFL Draft | 2015, Round 4, Pick 122 |
| Pro Bowl Selections | 2 (2019, 2020) |
| Notable Contract | 4-year, $66 million with Green Bay Packers |
| Nickname | “Z” |
| Charity Work | Mental health advocacy, youth mentorship |