Introduction
Za’Darius Smith is a professional American football player who currently plays as a defensive end for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL). Born on September 8, 1992, in Greenville, Alabama, he played college football at the University of Kentucky. In 2015, he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. Since then, he has established himself as one of the top pass rushers in the league, earning multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections.
Early Life and Education
Za’Darius Smith was raised in Greenville, Alabama, by his mother, who worked as a nurse, and his stepfather, who was a truck driver. He attended Greenville High School, where he played football as a defensive end and tight end. In his senior year, he recorded 91 tackles, 12 sacks, and two fumble recoveries, earning All-State honors.
After graduating from high school, Smith committed to playing college football at the University of Kentucky. In his freshman year, he played in all 12 games as a backup defensive end, recording 19 tackles and two sacks. He continued to improve in the following seasons, becoming a starter in his junior year and recording 61 tackles and 4.5 sacks. In his senior year, he recorded 61 tackles and 4.5 sacks, earning All-SEC honors.
NFL Career
In 2015, Za’Darius Smith was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. He played in all 16 games in his rookie year, recording 5.5 sacks and 30 tackles. He continued to improve in the following seasons, becoming a starter in 2017 and recording 8.5 sacks and 45 tackles. In 2018, he signed a four-year, $66 million contract with the Green Bay Packers, becoming one of the highest-paid defensive players in the league.
Playing Style
Za’Darius Smith is known for his versatility as a pass rusher. He has the speed and agility to beat offensive linemen on the outside, as well as the strength and power to bull rush them on the inside. He also has a variety of moves, including the spin move, the swim move, and the rip move, that he uses to get to the quarterback. In addition to his pass-rushing skills, he is also a solid run defender, setting the edge and making tackles in the backfield.
Awards and Achievements
Za’Darius Smith has been recognized for his outstanding performance on the field with multiple awards and honors. In 2019, he was selected to the Pro Bowl and the All-Pro First Team after recording 13.5 sacks and 55 tackles for the Green Bay Packers. He was also named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week twice during the season. In 2020, he was once again selected to the Pro Bowl after recording 12.5 sacks and 52 tackles.
Off the Field
Off the field, Za’Darius Smith is known for his philanthropic work. He established the Za’Darius and Zaevion Dobson Memorial Scholarship Fund in honor of his late cousin, who was killed in a shooting in Knoxville, Tennessee. The fund provides scholarships to students who have overcome adversity and are pursuing higher education. He also participates in community service events, including food drives and youth football clinics.
Conclusion
Za’Darius Smith is one of the most talented and versatile pass rushers in the NFL today. With his speed, strength, and agility, he has been able to dominate offensive linemen and disrupt opposing offenses. Off the field, he is a role model and a philanthropist, using his platform to make a positive impact in his community. As he continues to play at a high level, there is no doubt that he will be remembered as one of the greats of the game.
