The Philadelphia Eagles signed free‑agent edge rusher Za’Darius Smith to a one‑year deal. To make room on the roster, they placed fullback Ben VanSumeren on injured reserve after he suffered a knee injury on the opening kickoff of the Week 1 game.
Why It Matters
The Eagles’ pass rush looked underwhelming in their opening game. No sacks. Minimal pressure especially with Jalen Carter ejected early. With Brandon Graham retired and Josh Sweat gone via free agency, the edge rusher rotation lacked proven depth.
Smith plugs directly into that problem. In 2024, splitting time between the Browns and Lions, he recorded nine sacks in 17 games and had 17 quarterback hits. Over his career, he brings 69 regular‑season sacks across 140 games, plus playoff experience.
Role & Fit
Smith isn’t coming in to start over the young edge rushers—Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt are still viewed as Philly’s starters off the edge. What Za’Darius offers is rotation, pressure, and a veteran presence that can both relieve the younger players in pass rushing snaps and help maintain pass rush consistency.
Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has said Smith’s exact role is a “TBD.” It will depend on his conditioning and how quickly he adjusts to the Eagles’ scheme.
What’s Next
The real test comes this Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs. Can he help generate pressure where the Eagles couldn’t last game? Can he stay fresh and effective throughout the season?
If he does, this signing could be one of the moves that tips the scales in Philly’s defense—turning depth into a strategic advantage