Three-Time Pro Bowler Shares Heartbreaking Reason for Abrupt Retirement
Summary
Za'Darius Smith, an NFL defensive end, retired abruptly in 2025 to be with his dying mother. After losing several family members, he decided to return to football and signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons for the 2026 season.Key Facts
- Za'Darius Smith retired during the 2025 NFL season to spend time with his terminally ill mother.
- After his mother’s death, he also lost his grandmother and father.
- Smith felt football was his "happy place" and wanted to return to the sport.
- He nearly signed with the Cleveland Browns but the deal fell through because of financial reasons.
- The Atlanta Falcons signed him for one year at $6 million, partly due to injuries and suspensions on their team.
- Smith is from Montgomery, Alabama, and the Falcons are the closest NFL team to his hometown.
- Head coach Kevin Stefanski, who coached Smith at the Browns, is now coaching the Falcons.
- Smith plans to bring his late mother’s church community to Falcons games by arranging bus transportation.
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