What the Packers' decision to release Za'Darius Smith means for Rashan Gary
The Packers officially released Za'Darius Smith Monday, which doesn't really come as much of a surprise. Speculation has surrounded Smith's future ever since the 2021 season ended and the move makes sense when you combine his injured 2021 season with his $27.6 million cap hit in 2022. But there's another reason why the Packers decided […]
The Packers officially released Za'Darius Smith Monday, which doesn't really come as much of a surprise. Speculation has surrounded Smith's future ever since the 2021 season ended and the move makes sense when you combine his injured 2021 season with his $27.6 million cap hit in 2022.
But there's another reason why the Packers decided to release Smith, even if they haven't publicly stated it. And that's the development of Rashan Gary over the last couple of years.
Gary has 14.5 sacks over the last two seasons after a disappointing rookie campaign that featured just 2.0 sacks. For a first-round pick, 2019 was not a good starting point. However, pass rushers often take time to develop in the NFL and Gary has done just that over his first three seasons. Last year saw him finish with a career-high 9.5 sacks.
Gary's big 2021 season coincides with Smith's back injury that kept him from playing all but 18 snaps during the regular season. The Packers obviously saw enough in Gary to where they felt confident with the decision to release Smith. If the Packers can get another 9.5 sacks or more out of Gary in the coming years then it will be well worth his combined cap hit of $15 million over the next two seasons.
And now, the former Michigan Wolverine will get his chance to prove the organization right. He will take over Smith's role and join Preston Smith as the Packers' bookend pass rushers.
No pressure, right?
Featured image via Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
