The Eagles came into the season a little light at defensive end, but that noise has suddenly been silenced. Howie Roseman has pulled another ace out of the bag, bringing in former Lions' pass-rusher Za'Darius Smith on a one-year deal.
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What does Smith bring to the Eagles?
The immediate reaction by many to this will be just how much of a 'Howie' move this feels. Chris Long, Michael Bennett, the list goes on. The Eagles have been able to find a real sweet spot bringing in veteran pass-rushers in a pinch to bridge the gap until their younger players are ready.
Smith joins the Eagles on the back of an interesting 2024 campaign. He was poached by the Lions following Aidan Hutchinson's injury, putting up 4 sacks in 8 games along with 10 QB hits. Before that, the 32 year old spent half a year with the Browns where he registered 5 sacks.
Smith has enjoyed a storied NFL career. As he enters year #11, he does so with 69 total sacks, 3 Pro Bowls, 333 tackles and 10 forced fumbles.
The Eagles decided to fill the void left by Bryce Huff, Brandon Graham, and Josh Sweat with a blend of youth and veteran talent. Jalyx Hunt figures to see a higher workload this year ahead of Josh Uche and Azeez Ojulari, but neither of the latter names are starting-caliber players at this point.
Smith has been a menace to opposing quarterbacks for over a decade now, and gives the Eagles a cheap veteran leader who can help set the tone and produce at a high level, strengthening the rotation, and giving Vic Fangio some more optionality.
LB/FB Ben VanSumeren has been placed on IR following his heartbreaking injury suffered during the kickoff of Thursday Night's opener. Hopefully, he can make a speedy recovery and will be back with the team soon.
Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
