Packers: Za’Darius Smith top five in sacks since start of 2019

When the Green Bay Packers signed Za’Darius Smith in the first week of free agency in 2019, they were banking on his potential to become a starter after spending the majority of his time with the Baltimore Ravens in a backup role.

Well, the Packers were spot on and Smith has proven them right. After starting 16 games over four years for the Ravens, he’s started all 32 games in his two seasons with the Packers and proved to be one of the best edge rushers in football.

According to CBS Sports, Smith has the third-most sacks in the NFL over the past two seasons, including the playoffs. Smith has made 29 sacks since signing with Green Bay a couple of years ago, half a sack behind T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers and 2.5 sacks behind Shaquil Barrett of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Smith has helped transform the Packers’ pass rush. The team had moved on from Nick Perry and Clay Matthews in 2019 and needed new additions, which is why they signed Za’Darius and Preston Smith in free agency then drafted Rashan Gary 12th overall that spring.

Gary could have a breakout season this year, while Za’Darius Smith has been phenomenal with two Pro Bowls in as many years.

Smith also immediately became a fan-favorite. He’s a leader in the locker room, something every great team needs, and he’s also gone the extra mile to show his love for the fanbase. He’s even been in attendance at Milwaukee Bucks games this season during their playoff run.

Smith has made a huge difference to the Packers’ defense and has proven he’s one of the top pass rushers in the league. He’s come up with many game-changing plays for Green Bay over the past two years and there will hopefully be many more to come in 2021.