The status and potential return of Green Bay Packers star pass rusher Za'Darius Smith has been one of the biggest storylines leading up to the Packers-49ers clash at Lambeau Field. Smith, who hasn't played since Week 1 after he underwent back surgery, received a big update when he was designated to return from IR last week. Head coach Matt LaFleur was also “hopeful” that Smith would be able to suit up for the Packers-49ers matchup on Saturday. Smith's return is even more of a possibility after the recent update from ESPN NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler.
The Packers are expected to activate Pro Bowl pass-rusher Za’Darius Smith for Saturday’s playoff game against 49ers, per sources. Smith has been gearing up to be available for this game and the plan has been for him to play barring late change. First action since Week 1 for Smith
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) January 21, 2022
Per Fowler, the Packers are expected to activate Za'Darius Smith for Saturday's big game against the 49ers. Smith's return will mark his first game action since Week 1.
While there will be some rust on the part of Smith, this is undoubtedly a huge update for the team's defense ahead of the Packers-49ers tilt. Smith picked up 13.5 and 12.5 sacks, respectively, in his first two seasons in Green Bay before his 2021 campaign was cut short due to injury.
Smith can change a game with his ability to rush the passer. If the Packers star can rediscover his form from the 2019 season, then Jimmy Garoppolo and the 49ers offense could be in for a long night.
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