It hasn’t taken long for Za’Darius Smith to make his presence felt in Philadelphia. Just days after signing, the Eagles' newest pass rusher is already winning over his new teammates, coaches, and fans with his words and his presence on the practice field.
After Wednesday’s practice, Smith told Eagles reporters he wants to help fill the leadership void left by Brandon Graham, who retired after last season. For a locker room that has leaned on Graham’s energy and mentorship for more than a decade, Smith recognizes the importance of stepping into that role.
"I just felt comfortable with this team because they lost a veteran leader last year in BG (Brandon Graham). It was a great opportunity, great fit for me to come here and basically do what I do and just help the younger guys."Za’Darius Smith
Za'Darius Smith is Already Winning Eagles Fans Over
Eagles fans love players who work hard, which is why Smith is a natural fit in the City of Brotherly Love. The vet disruptor also praised the team’s work ethic, noting that the group hasn’t grown complacent after winning last season’s Super Bowl.
"Hungry. For a team to win a Super Bowl last year and to come back and be going as hard as they are at practice, it shows a lot. It shows what type of football team this really is."Za’Darius Smith
Smith arrives in Philadelphia with a resume that speaks for itself. Last season, he split time with the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions, recording nine sacks, 60 pressures, and a 14.9% pressure rate—numbers that would have led all Eagles defensive linemen. That production, paired with his track record as a three-time Pro Bowler, reinforces that he still has plenty left in the tank entering his 11th NFL season.
While he won’t be asked to play every down at this stage of his career, Smith’s role is still critical. The Eagles are deep with young, athletic edge rushers, but few possess his combination of experience and savvy. In a defense that leans on rotations and situational pass-rush packages, Smith’s experience and versatility make him an ideal complement to the Eagles’ younger edge rushers.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, his leadership might prove just as valuable. Smith has built a reputation around the league as a vocal presence who sets the tone in practice, something that will matter for a defense expected to carry championship expectations once again.
If the Eagles want to repeat as Super Bowl champions, their young edge rushers must continue to develop. Adding a proven veteran in Smith gives Philadelphia not just another weapon on the field, but also a steadying influence off it—a presence that could pay major dividends as the season progresses.