The Falcons have worked out three-time Pro Bowler Za’Darius Smith amid uncertainty over his expected signing with the Browns.
The Atlanta Falcons worked out veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith on Monday, creating uncertainty around his expected return to the Cleveland Browns. Smith had been viewed as a likely Browns signing after Cleveland showed keen interest in bringing him back, but Atlanta’s workout gives the three-time Pro Bowler another potential destination.
The Falcons have a clear need for additional pass-rushing depth. Jalon Walker suffered a torn ACL on Aug. 4 and will miss the entire 2026 season, while James Pearce Jr. is suspended for Atlanta’s first eight games. Those absences have increased the importance of finding another experienced edge defender.
Smith, who turns 34 next month, is attempting an NFL comeback after his time with the Philadelphia Eagles. He signed with Philadelphia last September and later announced his retirement. The Eagles subsequently removed him from their reserve/retired list earlier this year.
The veteran has spent 11 NFL seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Browns, Detroit Lions and Eagles. He has accumulated 70.5 career sacks and earned Pro Bowl selections in 2019, 2020 and 2022.
Smith’s previous run with Cleveland could make Atlanta an especially interesting option because Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski was the Browns’ head coach when Smith played there. Smith appeared in 25 games for Cleveland during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, recording 50 tackles and 10.5 sacks.
Smith’s workout does not guarantee a contract with Atlanta, but it gives the Falcons an opportunity to add a veteran with extensive NFL experience at a position where the team has lost two important contributors. The Browns, meanwhile, could need to reconsider their plans if Smith ultimately chooses Atlanta.
The Atlanta Falcons worked out veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith on Monday, creating uncertainty around his expected return to the Cleveland Browns. Smith had been viewed as a likely Browns signing after Cleveland showed keen interest in bringing him back, but Atlanta’s workout gives the three-time Pro Bowler another potential destination.
