50 Facts About Za’Darius Smith

Early Life and High School

Za'Darius Smith's journey to NFL stardom began in Montgomery, Alabama. His early years were filled with sports, but not the one you'd expect.

1. Za'Darius Smith was born on September 8, 1992, in Montgomery, Alabama.
2. He grew up in a family with a strong athletic background.
3. His older brother, Bob Meeks, played center at Auburn University and for the NFL’s Denver Broncos.
4. Smith attended Greenville High School in Greenville, Alabama.
5. He was a latecomer to football, having grown up playing basketball.
6. Smith didn't start playing football until his senior year of high school.
7. He was coached by Ben Blackmon at Greenville High School.

College Football Journey

Smith's college career took him from junior college stardom to the SEC, where he honed his skills and caught the attention of NFL scouts.

8. Smith attended East Mississippi Community College (EMCC) before transferring to the University of Kentucky.
9. At EMCC, he was recognized as the nation’s No. 1 junior college strongside defensive end prospect by JCGridiron.com.
10. During his time at EMCC, he was named second-team All-America by the National Junior College Athletic Association.
11. In his sophomore year, he totaled 47 tackles, including 6.5 quarterback sacks and 11 total tackles for loss.
12. As a freshman at EMCC, Smith made 19 tackles, featuring 4.5 sacks and seven total tackles for loss.
13. The team won the 2011 NJCAA national championship with a 12-0 record.
14. Smith transferred to the University of Kentucky as a junior-college transfer.
15. He started every game at defensive end and tied for third on the team in tackles with 59.
16. Smith was recognized as a third-team All-SEC by CollegeSportsMadness.com.
17. He took advantage of the high-performance program at Kentucky, improving his physicality significantly.

NFL Draft and Early Career

Smith's transition to the NFL began with the Baltimore Ravens, where he quickly made a name for himself as a formidable defensive end.

18. Smith was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft.
19. On September 20, 2015, he made his professional regular season debut during a 37–33 loss at the Oakland Raiders.
20. As a rookie in 2015, Smith played 15 games with 30 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and two passes defended.
21. Smith made his first career sack on Steelers’ quarterback Michael Vick for a six-yard loss.
22. In the 2016 season, Smith played in 13 games and started four.
23. The 2017 season saw Smith appear in 14 games and start four.
24. In the 2018 season, Smith appeared in 16 games and started eight.
25. He recorded three sacks in Week 6 against the Tennessee Titans, earning him AFC Defensive Player of the Week.
26. Smith finished the 2018 season with career-highs of 45 combined tackles, 8.5 sacks, two passes defensed, and a forced fumble.

Career Highlights and Achievements

Smith's career has been marked by consistent performance and significant milestones, making him one of the top defensive ends in the league.

27. As of the 2023 season, Za'Darius Smith has accumulated 54.5 career sacks.
28. Smith has been nothing but consistent when healthy.
29. In 2023, Smith was traded to the Cleveland Browns.
30. As of the 2024 season, Za'Darius Smith is playing for the Cleveland Browns.
31. Smith stands at 6 feet 6 inches (198 cm) tall and weighs 263 pounds (119 kg).
32. During his time at the University of Kentucky, Smith majored in community and leadership development.
33. Smith's dream job is to become a head football coach at his hometown high school.
34. Smith has a hidden talent for basketball and playing pool.
35. His favorite part of game day is the Cat Walk.
36. Smith loves to ride around the city in his 1989 Caprice Classic.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond the gridiron, Smith has a rich personal life filled with unique interests and a commitment to his community.

37. Smith's older brother, Bob Meeks, played center at Auburn University and for the NFL’s Denver Broncos.
38. A cousin, Davern Williams, played at Troy and for the NFL’s New York Giants.
39. A niece, Kristi Mokube, played basketball at Florida State.
40. Smith is involved in various community activities.
41. Smith enjoys playing basketball and pool in his free time.
42. His favorite sports teams include those from his hometown and alma mater.

Impact on Teams and Legacy

Smith's impact on his teams and his legacy in the NFL are testaments to his skill, dedication, and leadership.

43. Smith's impact on his teams has been significant.
44. He has led the Ravens in sacks and finished sixth on the team in tackles during the 2018 season.
45. Smith's presence on the field has been a game-changer.
46. Beyond his individual achievements, Smith has also taken on a leadership role within his teams.
47. Smith's legacy in the NFL is one of consistency and resilience.
48. His ability to perform at a high level despite health concerns and injuries has made him a respected figure in the league.
49. Smith's contributions both on and off the field have left a lasting impact on the sport and its fans.
50. As of the 2024 season, Za'Darius Smith remains an integral part of the Cleveland Browns’ defensive strategy.

The Legacy of Za'Darius Smith

Za'Darius Smith's journey from a latecomer to football in high school to a top NFL defensive end is nothing short of inspiring. His consistent performance, despite injuries, showcases his resilience and dedication. Smith's impact on teams like the Ravens and Browns highlights his ability to lead and elevate those around him. Off the field, his commitment to community involvement and personal interests adds depth to his character. As he continues to play for the Browns, Smith's legacy in the NFL grows stronger. His story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the power of never giving up. Whether on the field or in his community, Za'Darius Smith remains a figure of admiration and respect. His contributions to football and beyond will be remembered for years to come.