Vikings, ex-Packer Za’Darius Smith agree to 3-year deal
FILE - Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Za'Darius Smith (55) plays against the Detroit Lions during the first half of an NFL football game in Detroit, Dec. 13, 2020. The Green Bay Packers signed outside linebacker Preston Smith to a contract extension and released outside linebacker Za’Darius Smith and offensive lineman Billy Turner in a flurry of moves before the start of the free-agency period. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, File)
The Minnesota Vikings made another big addition to the team’s defense on Tuesday.
KSTP Sports has confirmed free agent Za’Darius Smith has agreed to sign a three-year, $42 million deal with the Vikings. With incentives, the deal could reach up to $47 million.
Smith was in the Twin Cities on Monday, visiting with the team.
The former Packer was released by Green Bay earlier this month as the team cleared salary cap space.
Smith, 29, spent the past three seasons with the Packers after playing his first four NFL seasons with the Baltimore Ravens. In 91 career games, he’s totaled 219 tackles, 44.5 sacks and 8 forced fumbles.
The Vikings defense now features two star edge rushers in Smith and Danielle Hunter. Since Hunter and Smith entered the league in 2015, they’ve notched 105 sacks, collectively.
Minnesota has also added defensive lineman Harrison Phillips and linebacker Jordan Hicks during free agency, as the team revamps the defense.
The team may also target additional reinforcements, particularly cornerbacks, in the NFL Draft, which starts on April 28.