Falcons sign Za'Darius Smith after Jalon Walker injury, James Pearce Jr. suspension

Three-time Pro Bowler Za'Darius Smith is returning to the NFL, signing a one-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons after retiring last year.

Smith's deal is worth $6 million and could rise to $8 million, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported.

The 33-year-old announced his retirement in October 2025 after appearing in five games for the Philadelphia Eagles. Speculation about a comeback grew after he visited the Cleveland Browns last week.

Smith joins an Atlanta pass rush depleted by injury and suspension during training camp.

Jalon Walker, the Falcons' 2025 first-round pick, tore his ACL during practice on August 4. Fellow 2025 first-round pick James Pearce Jr. was then handed an eight-game suspension by the NFL for violating its personal conduct policy.

Pearce had faced three felony charges following a domestic dispute. His legal team reached an agreement under which the charges will be dismissed if he completes a pre-trial intervention programme and stays out of trouble for six months.

Smith entered the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens in 2015 and has also played for the Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Browns and Detroit Lions.

He has recorded 70.5 sacks during his NFL career, including nine in 2024.