Za'Darius Smith discusses return to Falcons after family losses

Za'Darius Smith opened up about his return to the NFL as a member of the Atlanta Falcons ahead of their preseason finale against the Miami Dolphins. Smith previously retired in October 2025 after learning about his mother's terminal illness, followed by the loss of his mother, grandmother, and father in quick succession. He described this period as the darkest of his life, emphasizing that his family issues were separate from football. In his press conference, he shared that his mother always wanted him to play for the Falcons, making his signing feel significant. The Falcons close out the preseason Friday as they prepare for the regular season.

• 10:50 AMYahoo Sports — Falcons DE Opens Up on Return to NFL After Heartbreaking Family Losses