Falcons sign Za'Darius Smith to strengthen pass rush
3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 12:32 AM
Last updated Aug 19, 2026
The Atlanta Falcons have signed Za'Darius Smith to a one-year contract. This move comes in response to the team's recent losses of Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., who will be unavailable for a considerable time. Smith's addition aims to enhance the Falcons' pass-rushing capabilities as they prepare for the upcoming season. The organization sees this as a crucial step to maintain competitiveness on defense.
- •Za'Darius Smith signs a one-year deal with the Falcons.
- •Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. are out for an extended period.
- •Smith's signing aims to boost the team's pass rush.
- •The Falcons look to strengthen their defense ahead of the season.
- 12:32 AMYahoo Sports — Kevin Stefanski reunites with veteran pass rusher in major Falcons move
- 2:30 PMESPN — Falcons sign veteran Smith to aid pass rush
"After losing Jalon Walker for the season and James Pearce Jr. for eight games, the Falcons aren’t standing still. Atlanta has added veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith, a former All-Pro with 70.5 career sacks, to help keep its defense among the NFL’s most dangerous.
"Za'Darius Smith has signed a one-year deal with the Falcons to help bolster their pass rush after losing Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. for an extended period.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 19, 2026, 12:32 AMKevin Stefanski reunites with veteran pass rusher in major Falcons move
After losing Jalon Walker for the season and James Pearce Jr. for eight games, the Falcons aren’t standing still. Atlanta has added veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith, a former All-Pro with 70.5 career sacks, to help keep its defense among the NFL’s most dangerous.
- ESPNAug 18, 2026, 2:30 PMFalcons sign veteran Smith to aid pass rush
Za'Darius Smith has signed a one-year deal with the Falcons to help bolster their pass rush after losing Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. for an extended period.
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