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Za'Darius Smith encouraged to consider return from NFL retirement

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 9, 2026, 11:04 PM

Last updated Jul 9, 2026

Za'Darius Smith encouraged to consider return from NFL retirement

Summary

Za'Darius Smith, a former Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman, retired last year after a short stint with the team. He joined the Eagles in September 2025 but retired before the season's halfway point. An NFL writer has suggested that Smith might consider unretiring, particularly since he is now a free agent after being released by the Eagles. Despite unsolicited encouragement for his return, Smith has not indicated any plans to return to the field at this time.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Za'Darius Smith retired from the NFL last year after five games with the Eagles.
•He recorded 10 tackles and 1.5 sacks during his brief Eagles tenure.
•Smith was released from the reserve/retired list last month and is now a free agent.
•Smith's retirement decision was personal and not team-related, according to sources.
•There is no indication from Smith about a potential return to football.

Latest Updates

11:04 PMYahoo Sports — Ex-Eagles Player Encouraged To Reverse Shocking NFL Retirement

What they're saying

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One NFL writer would like to see a former Philadelphia Eagles player return to the field after a shocking retirement last year. The post Ex-Eagles Player Encouraged To Reverse Shocking NFL Retirement appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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