Za’Darius Smith, former Kentucky star defender, signs big 3-year contract with new NFL team
By Adam Spencer
Published:
Za’Darius Smith was a fourth-round pick out of Kentucky in the 2015 NFL Draft, going to the Baltimore Ravens.
He’s spent the past 3 years as a key member of the Green Bay Packers’ defense, helping the team to the playoffs each year.
Now, though, he’s heading to one of the Packers’ rivals. The Minnesota Vikings announced on Tuesday that Smith was signing a 3-year contract that is worth a reported $42 million:
ZA'DARIUS‼️
The #Vikings have agreed to terms with @zadariussmith.
?: https://t.co/7kzcA7fEiN pic.twitter.com/rKPZI46RVM
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) March 22, 2022
Vikings agree to terms with LB Za'Darius Smith on three-year, $42 million deal. (via @RapSheet + @TomPelissero) pic.twitter.com/uXRKr195TW
— NFL (@NFL) March 22, 2022
In 7 NFL seasons, including the 2021 season that was cut short by injury, Smith has recorded 227 total tackles and 44.5 sacks. He has forced 8 fumbles and has broken up 7 passes.
He figures to be a major part of the Vikings’ defense over the next 3 seasons, just like he was in Green Bay.
Adam is a daily fantasy sports (DFS) and sports betting expert. A 2012 graduate of the University of Missouri, Adam now covers all 16 SEC football teams. He is the director of DFS, evergreen and newsletter content across all Saturday Football brands.
