Za'Darius Smith Fantasy

Free-agent linebacker Za'Darius Smith agreed to a three-year deal with a base value of $42 million with the Minnesota Vikings on Tuesday, according to a source. The deal is worth up to a total of $47 million in incentives with a $14 million average per year. Smith appeared to be headed to the Baltimore Ravens, but he backed out and will now stay in the NFC North after spending the last three seasons with the Green Bay Packers, where he made two Pro Bowls. The 29-year-old had a combined 26 sacks in 2019 and 2020, but he played in only one game in 2021 due to injury. If Smith stays healthy and bounces back, he could once again be interesting in IDP leagues. He'll be hoping to improve Minnesota's pass rush next to Danielle Hunter and Everson Griffen.

Mar. 22nd • 3:01 PM

Former Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Za'Darius Smith visited with the Minnesota Vikings on Monday, according to sources. Smith's original deal with the Baltimore Ravens fell apart, so he's back on the open market and could end up staying in the NFC North. The 29-year-old pass-rusher originally agreed to a four-year, $35 million deal with Baltimore before he backed out. Smith would give the Vikings a capable pass-rusher next to Danielle Hunter and Everson Griffen in Minnesota. He was a Pro Bowler in both 2019 and 2020 for the Packers with a combined 26 sacks before he played in just one game due to injury last season. If fully healthy, Smith could be a game-changer for a Vikings D that has really struggled in recent seasons.

Mar. 21st • 10:28 PM

Outside linebacker Za'Darius Smith will not be signing a contract with the Baltimore Ravens. It was reported earlier this week that the 29-year-old had landed a four-year, $35 million deal with the Ravens, but that deal has apparently fallen through. Smith was a member of the Green Bay Packers for each of the last three seasons. He missed the bulk of the 2021 season due to injuries and the Packers released him earlier this week. He's shown the ability to be an elite pass rusher. He compiled a total of 26 sacks over 32 games from 2019 to 2020. We'll see if he lands a new deal with the Ravens or if he winds up elsewhere.

Mar. 17th • 3:12 PM