The Green Bay Packers have brought back several key members of their team from last season. Za’Darius Smith is not one of them, as he was cut to create salary cap space. Last week, Smith had reportedly come to an agreement to return to the Baltimore Ravens, the only other team he has played for in the NFL. However, he backed out of that agreement and remains a free agent. According to Tom Pelissero, Smith is now visiting the Minnesota Vikings.
Former #Packers OLB Za'Darius Smith is headed to Minnesota today for a visit with the #Vikings, per sources.
Smith's original deal with the #Ravens fell apart. Could he stay in the NFC North instead?
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 21, 2022
Former Packers linebackers coach Mike Smith is now on staff in Minnesota. After Smith was hired by the Vikings, Za’Darius posted the following Tweet:
👀
— Za'Darius Smith (@zadariussmith) February 21, 2022
Since then, many Packers fans have expected that Smith would join his former position coach with the Vikings. However, Za’Darius himself has not stated one way or another if Mike Smith being in Minnesota is a reason for his interest.
The Packers will not be bring Za’Darius Smith back. They have extended Preston Smith and still have Rashan Gary on his rookie contract. The two combined for 18.5 sacks last season. Smith, of course, was limited to one game due to a back injury. However, there was some undisclosed drama behind the scenes. Smith was not voted as team captain by his teammates, and apparently took issue with that.
Anyone who knows what was going on between the front office and Smith is not talking. For now, though, Packers fans might have to start thinking about seeing him in Vikings’ purple.
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