Falcons sign Za'Darius Smith after losing Pearce and Walker
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 1:25 PM
Last updated Aug 18, 2026
The Atlanta Falcons have signed pass rusher Za'Darius Smith to a one-year deal. This move follows the suspension of James Pearce Jr. and the ACL injury to Jalon Walker. Smith previously played under head coach Kevin Stefanski and had a successful stint with the Cleveland Browns, registering 10.5 sacks in 2023 and 2024. After initially retiring in 2025, he announced his return to the NFL. Further updates on the significance of this signing will follow.
- •Za'Darius Smith returns to the NFL after a brief retirement.
- •Atlanta signed Smith to fill vacancies left by Pearce and Walker.
- •Smith has previously played successfully under Kevin Stefanski.
- •He recorded 10.5 sacks over 17 games in his last full season.
- 1:25 PMYahoo Sports — Falcons sign pass rusher to fill void of James Pearce Jr., Jalon Walker
"The news comes after the suspension of James Pearce Jr., and the loss of pass rusher Jalon Walker to an ACL injury. Here's what to know.
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