Za’Darius Smith expected to reunite with Browns after brief retirement
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 16, 2026, 3:14 PM
Last updated Aug 16, 2026
Za’Darius Smith is poised to resume his NFL career with the Cleveland Browns following a brief retirement. The former Lions pass rusher worked out for Cleveland recently, indicating a potential signing is imminent. Smith previously played for the Browns in 2023 and began the 2024 season with the team before being traded to Detroit, where he recorded four sacks in eight games. He took a short retirement after a stint with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2025, but now seems ready to contribute again. His familiarity with the Browns could provide them with valuable experience on their defensive line.
- •Smith worked out for the Browns after a brief retirement.
- •He played for the Browns in 2023 before joining the Lions.
- •Smith contributed four sacks for Detroit during the 2024 season.
- •He had a short retirement following his time with the Eagles in 2025.
- •The signing is not official until Smith completes the deal.
- 3:14 PMYahoo Sports — Former Lions EDGE Za’Darius Smith on Verge of Finding a New Home
"Za’Darius Smith’s retirement appears ready to end. The former Lions pass rusher is expected to reunite with the Cleveland Browns after spending part of the 2024 season in Detroit.
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