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Za'Darius Smith news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Browns expected to sign three-time Pro Bowl DE Za'Darius Smith, 33, after a tryout. He retired in October 2025 with the Eagles but now returns to Cleveland.
Background
Za'Darius Smith, a three-time Pro Bowl defensive end, played for the Browns in 2023 and 2024 before being traded to Detroit and then signing with Philadelphia. He retired in October 2025, but after the Browns traded star pass rusher Myles Garrett to the Rams, they are looking to bolster their defensive line. Smith worked out for Cleveland on August 13, 2026, and is expected to sign a contract.
How it unfolded
- Oct 2025Smith informed the Eagles he was retiring and spent the rest of the season on the reserve/retired list.
- Aug 13, 2026The Browns hosted Smith for a tryout, and he passed his physical.
- Aug 16, 2026Reports indicate Smith is expected to fly to Cleveland to sign a contract, three days after the tryout.
- Aug 17, 2026A report suggests Smith could instead join the Atlanta Falcons, reuniting with former Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- The Browns are expected to sign Smith, according to Cleveland.com, and he is set to fly to Cleveland to finalize the deal.
- Caution
- Smith is 'far from a safe bet' given his sudden retirement last season, and he would provide depth behind Jared Verse and Alex Wright.
- Analysts
- Smith could help fill a big need for the Falcons and rejoin Stefanski, potentially spurning the Browns.
Still unverified
The report that Smith could sign with the Falcons instead of the Browns is based on a rumor and not confirmed.