Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski got revenge on his former team by signing edge rusher Za’Darius Smith away from the Browns.
The Atlanta Falcons brought in Kevin Stefanski as head coach earlier this offseason. Stefanski had spent the past six seasons leading the Cleveland Browns. Stefanski just some revenge against his old team by swiping away a priority free agent just weeks before the 2026 NFL season.
The Falcons are signing three-time Pro Bowler Za’Darius Smith to a one-year contract, per NFL insider Jordan Schultz. His contract is worth $6 million and incentives bring that up to a possible $8 million total.
Smith was expected to sign with the Browns based on multiple reports. The landing spot made sense, especially because Smith played in Cleveland during the 2023 season and the beginning of 2024.
Smith worked out for the Falcons on Monday, which created some uncertainty about him joining the Browns altogether. Ultimately, he chose to reunite with Stefanski in Atlanta.
The Falcons were quick to make the news official, posting a graphic on social media earlier this morning to announce the news.
There are a few compelling reasons why Smith may have chosen the Falcons over the Browns.
First, there’s the Stefanski angle. Smith may have enjoyed playing for his former head coach, which could help explain his sudden decision to switch teams. But there’s also the fact that Smith has a clear path to playing time in Atlanta.
The Falcons have already been dealt some major blows to their pass rush unit. Jalon Walker will miss the 2026 season after tearing his ACL during a training camp practice. Atlanta still has star James Pearce Jr., but Pearce will miss the first eight games of the season. He is suspended after a domestic violence dispute with WNBA star Rickea Jackson.
Now Smith has the opportunity to compete for starting snaps alongside Azeez Ojulari and Samson Ebukam.
It will be fascinating to see if the 33-year-old pass rusher can play a big role in Atlanta this season. The Falcons may need him to keep the defense afloat before Pearce returns.
The Atlanta Falcons brought in Kevin Stefanski as head coach earlier this offseason. Stefanski had spent the past six seasons leading the Cleveland Browns. Stefanski just some revenge against his old team by swiping away a priority free agent just weeks before the 2026 NFL season.
