League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Za'Darius Smith explains his retirement from Eagles last season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 27, 2026, 3:34 PM

Last updated Aug 27, 2026

Za'Darius Smith explains his retirement from Eagles last season

Summary

Za'Darius Smith addressed his unexpected retirement from the Philadelphia Eagles during a press conference after rejoining the NFL with the Falcons. Smith revealed that he stepped away from football to spend time with his ailing mother, who was not expected to live long. His decision came as a surprise to the Eagles organization, but Smith stated that family obligations were the primary reason behind the move. He had been with the Eagles before retiring but is now looking forward to his new chapter with the Falcons.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports Bleeding Green Nation

By the Numbers

•Za'Darius Smith surprised Eagles with his retirement.
•He retired to care for his ailing mother.
•Smith now joins the Falcons after his brief retirement.
•Eagles impacted defensively during Smith's absence.

Latest Updates

3:34 PMYahoo Sports — Eagles News: Za’Darius Smith reveals why he left Philadelphia last year
3:34 PMBleeding Green Nation — Eagles News: Za’Darius Smith reveals why he left Philadelphia last year - Bleeding Green Nation

What they're saying