In a surprising turn of events that sent shockwaves through the NFL, veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith announced his immediate retirement on Monday, just five games into his first season with the Philadelphia Eagles.
The 33-year-old three-time Pro Bowler, who signed a one-year contract with the Eagles after Week 1, took to Instagram to share his decision. In a lengthy, emotional post, Smith reflected on his unlikely journey and career:
“I knew this day would come — but now that it’s here, I’m feeling so many emotions I never expected.”
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He noted his improbable rise to the professional ranks, saying:
> “Who would’ve thought that a kid from Greenville, AL, with just one year of high school football experience, would go on to play professional football in the NFL for 11 incredible years!”
Smith also expressed profound gratitude for how the game changed his life and allowed him to give back:
“This game has given me the opportunity to meet great coaches, compete alongside some of the best players ever, and represent some of the greatest organizations in the league. Football has transformed my life and my family’s lives forever — and for that, I’m forever grateful.
This career has taken me across the world — from earning my first passport stamp to visit countries I only saw on maps, to helping me start a foundation that gives back to my community.”
While he acknowledged the difficulties, he stressed the overwhelming positive impact:
“There have been challenges along the way, but the rewards have outweighed them all and helped me learn, grow, and evolve as a man.”
He included a reference to his faith, quoting a biblical passage often paraphrased as “to whom much is given, much is required”:
> “…For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required…” – Luke 12:48.
Smith’s decision comes on the heels of the Eagles suffering an embarrassing loss to the New York Giants. While the timing is shocking, NFL insider Dianna Russini reported that the retirement was an entirely personal decision and had nothing to do with the Eagles organization.
The departure leaves a significant hole in the Eagles’ edge rusher rotation, forcing the team to find a way to replace Smith’s production (1.5 sacks and 10 tackles) and veteran presence. Smith closes the book on his career with 70.5 total sacks across stints with the Ravens, Packers, Vikings, Browns, Lions, and Eagles.
