Za'Darius Smith is a formidable American football defensive end, renowned for his relentless pass-rushing skills and impactful presence on the field. A latecomer to the sport, Smith’s journey to the National Football League (NFL) was unconventional, marked by a start in junior college before transferring to a Division I program. Since being drafted, he has established himself as one of the premier edge rushers in the league, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and becoming a coveted player for several NFL franchises. His high-energy playing style and leadership have made him a significant force on every team he has represented.
Z’Darius Smith Overview
| Full Name | Za’Darius Smith |
| Date of Birth | September 8, 1992 |
| Birthplace | Montgomery, Alabama |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Weight | 272 lbs (122 kg) |
| Profession | Professional Football Player (Defensive End) |
| Current Team | Philadelphia Eagles |
| High School | Greenville High School (Greenville, Alabama) |
| College | East Mississippi Community College, University of Kentucky |
| NFL Draft | 2015 / Round: 4 / Pick: 122nd overall by the Baltimore Ravens |
| Net Worth | Estimated $48 million |
| Family | Bob Meeks (Older Brother, former NFL player) |
Early Life and Education of Z’Darius Smith
Za’Darius Smith was born on September 8, 1992, in Montgomery, Alabama. Growing up, his primary athletic focus was not on football, but rather on basketball. At Greenville High School, Smith was a standout on the basketball court, utilizing his height and athleticism. He only began playing football during his senior year of high school after realizing that his professional prospects in basketball were limited. His late start in football meant he was not heavily recruited by major college programs.
After high school, Smith enrolled at East Mississippi Community College (EMCC), a school renowned for developing football talent and later featured in the Netflix series “Last Chance U.” This decision proved pivotal for his career. At EMCC, he honed his skills as a defensive lineman, recording 66 tackles and 11 sacks over two seasons. His impressive performance at the junior college level garnered the attention of NCAA Division I programs, and he ultimately transferred to the University of Kentucky to compete in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC).
In his two seasons with the Kentucky Wildcats, Smith made an immediate impact. He started all 12 games in his first year, tallying 59 tackles and six sacks. As a senior, he continued to be a disruptive force on the defensive line, recording 60 tackles and 4.5 sacks. His time at Kentucky solidified his reputation as a formidable pass rusher and a legitimate NFL prospect.
Z’Darius Smith’s Career
College Career
Smith’s collegiate career was a tale of determination and rapid development. After a dominant stint at East Mississippi Community College from 2011 to 2012, where he was instrumental in the team’s success, he transitioned to the University of Kentucky for the 2013 and 2014 seasons. With the Wildcats, he quickly established himself as a key player on their defense. Over his two years in the SEC, Smith accumulated 119 total tackles and 11 sacks, proving he could compete at the highest level of college football. His versatility and relentless motor caught the eye of NFL scouts, setting the stage for his professional journey.
Professional Career
Baltimore Ravens (2015–2018)
The Baltimore Ravens selected Z’Darius Smith in the fourth round (122nd overall) of the 2015 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he showed flashes of his pass-rushing prowess, recording 5.5 sacks and 30 tackles in a rotational role. Over the next two seasons, he continued to be a solid contributor to the Ravens’ defense. His breakout season in Baltimore came in 2018, his final year with the team. Smith started eight games and set then-career highs with 45 tackles, 8.5 sacks, and a forced fumble, establishing himself as a premier pass rusher heading into free agency.
Green Bay Packers (2019–2021)
In March 2019, Smith signed a lucrative four-year, $66 million contract with the Green Bay Packers. This move marked a significant turning point in his career. In his first season with the Packers, he was a dominant force, recording a career-high 13.5 sacks and earning his first Pro Bowl selection. He quickly became a fan favorite and a leader on the Green Bay defense. In 2020, he continued his stellar play, tallying 12.5 sacks and earning a second consecutive Pro Bowl nod, as well as being named a second-team All-Pro. A back injury limited him to just one game in the 2021 season, and he was released by the Packers in the subsequent offseason.
Minnesota Vikings (2022)
Smith signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings in 2022. In his lone season with the Vikings, he proved he was still an elite pass rusher, registering 10 sacks and earning his third Pro Bowl selection. He was a key component of a Vikings team that won the NFC North division.
Cleveland Browns (2023-2024)
In May 2023, Smith was traded to the Cleveland Browns. He started 16 games and was a vital part of their formidable defense, contributing 5.5 sacks. In March 2024, he signed a two-year contract extension with the Browns.
Detroit Lions (2024)
Before the 2024 trade deadline, Smith was traded to the Detroit Lions. He provided a much-needed pass-rushing boost to a team that had suffered injuries at the position, recording four sacks in eight games and helping the Lions secure a division title.
Philadelphia Eagles (2025-Present)
After being released by the Lions, Smith signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles in September 2025, joining another contending team and adding a veteran presence to their defensive line.
Z’Darius Smith Personal Life & Family
Z’Darius Smith is known to be a family-oriented individual. His older brother, Bob Meeks, also played professional football, having played center at Auburn University and for the Denver Broncos. Smith has often spoken about the importance of his family and has been public about his acts of generosity, including buying his mother a new home. In his personal life, he was recently in a public relationship with Detroit-based rapper Kash Doll, though the couple announced their separation in August 2025.
Awards and Achievements of Z’Darius Smith
- 3× Pro Bowl (2019, 2020, 2022)
- Second-team All-Pro (2020)
- NFC Defensive Player of the Month (October 2022)
- 2x NFC Defensive Player of the Week
- AFC Defensive Player of the Week
Z’Darius Smith Net Worth and Income
As of 2025, Z’Darius Smith’s net worth is estimated to be around $48 million. His primary source of income is his NFL salary and signing bonuses from his various contracts with the Ravens, Packers, Vikings, Browns, Lions, and Eagles. Throughout his career, he has signed several multi-million dollar deals, including a four-year, $66 million contract with the Green Bay Packers in 2019. His career earnings from his NFL contracts are substantial, reflecting his status as a top-tier defensive player in the league.
Legacy and Influence
Z’Darius Smith’s legacy is that of a relentless and determined player who overcame a late start in football to become one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL. His high-energy playing style and vocal leadership have had a tangible impact on every team he has played for. Off the field, he is known for his charitable nature and his engaging personality. His journey from junior college to NFL stardom serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes who may not be highly touted out of high school.
Interesting Facts about Z’Darius Smith
- He was primarily a basketball player in high school and only played one year of high school football.
- He attended East Mississippi Community College, the school that became famous from the Netflix show “Last Chance U,” though his time there predated the series.
- His older brother, Bob Meeks, also played in the NFL.
- He is known for his charismatic personality and has been a vocal leader in the locker room for his various teams.
Controversies
While Z’Darius Smith’s career has been largely free of major off-field controversies, he has been outspoken at times. His departure from the Green Bay Packers was accompanied by some public disagreement regarding the handling of his back injury, with Smith expressing that he felt pressured to play through the injury.
Social Media Presence
Z’Darius Smith maintains an active presence on social media, where he often shares insights into his life both on and off the football field. He can be found on Instagram under the handle @zadariussmith, where he engages with his large following of fans.
Final Words about Z’Darius Smith
Z’Darius Smith’s career is a testament to his perseverance and natural talent. From a basketball player in a small Alabama town to a three-time Pro Bowl defensive end in the NFL, his journey is one of remarkable growth and success. As he continues his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, he remains a significant threat to opposing offenses and a respected leader in the locker room. His impact on the game is undeniable, and his story continues to be an inspiring one for many.
