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2h ago

Za'Darius Smith Expected to Rejoin Browns After Passing Physical

The likely short-term signing would add an experienced situational pass rusher during Cleveland's defensive rebuild.

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Sep 14, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Za'Darius Smith (52) guestures to fans prior to the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Smith worked out for the Browns on Thursday, passed a team physical, and multiple outlets reported on Aug. 16 that a signing is expected to be completed imminently.
  • The 33-year-old is a three-time Pro Bowler with roughly 70.5 career sacks and would be signed as a situational pass rusher rather than as a full-time starter.
  • Smith abruptly retired five games into the 2025 season with the Eagles and was released from the reserve/retired list in June, clearing the way for his return to the NFL.
  • If finalized the deal is expected to be modest and short term as the Browns plan to use Smith in a rotation with younger edges such as Jared Verse, Alex Wright and Isaiah McGuire.
  • The move gives Cleveland veteran depth after trading Myles Garrett and the team will now monitor Smith's conditioning, availability and snap count to judge how much impact he can provide this season.