The Green Bay Packers inked Preston Smith to a new deal just ahead of 2022 free agency, but they were unable to come to terms on a new agreement with Za'Darius Smith. Because of this, the Packers have released Smith, and he should be a coveted player on the open market.
ESPN's Adam Schefter and NFL Media's Ian Rapaport have more details on the situation:
Za’Darius Smith had the option to stay at this year’s owed cash amount, but both sides ultimately agreed it was best to move on. With the release, he carries no compensatory selection implications, which will help his interest. https://t.co/0j1ZBUKFwm
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 14, 2022
The #Packers have released Pro Bowl pass-rusher Za'Darius Smith, source said, adding another top defender to free agency. His cap number of $27.6M in 2022 was never going to work. Now, free — and healthy.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 14, 2022
The Packers have been extremely busy leading up to free agency as they work to lock in key players and get their salary cap situation in order. Aaron Rodgers was obviously the biggest domino, with Davante Adams right after him. Then there were the Smiths, and Jaire Alexander is looking for a big new deal as well.
The Rodgers deal hasn't been officially announced yet, but he's returning to the franchise for at least another season. Meanwhile, Adams doesn't want to play on the franchise tag and wants a long-term contract.
As for Za'Darius Smith, he blossomed into a Pro Bowl player in Green Bay after spending his first four NFL seasons with the Baltimore Ravens. Smith notched double-digit sacks in 2019 and 2020 to earn Pro Bowl nods, but unfortunately he was limited in 2021 due to injury. The linebacker appeared in just one regular-season game and the Packers' playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
Green would have loved Smith back, but it just wasn't in the cards. With Smith now healthy as he hits the market, there will surely be plenty of interested suitors for the star pass rusher.
In addition to releasing Smith, the Packers also released offensive tackle Billy Turner, who started 13 games last season.
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