Za'Darius Smith retired last season to be with his mother before she died
NBC Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Za’Darius Smith revealed that his surprise retirement last season was due to family reasons, specifically to be with his terminally ill mother during her final days.
- Smith's decision was also influenced by the subsequent deaths of his grandmother and father, leading him to take time away from football to cope with these losses.
- He expressed that returning to football with the Falcons brought him joy and helped him emerge from a dark period, highlighting the emotional significance of the sport in his life.
- After initially working out for the Browns and expecting to sign with them, Smith chose the Falcons due to a better financial offer and the team's urgent need following injuries and suspensions.
- Family connections played a key role in his return to Atlanta, as his mother had always wanted him to play for the Falcons, close to their Alabama home.
