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Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Za'Darius Smith shockingly announced on Monday he's hanging up his cleats for good.
The 33-year-old took to Instagram to make the surprise news that he's retiring after nearly 10 years in the NFL. What's even more shocking is that he signed a one-year deal with the Eagles after Week 1, meaning he only played five games with the defending Super Bowl champions before calling it a career.
"This game has given me the opportunity to meet great coaches, compete alongside some of the best players ever, and represent some of the greatest organizations in the league. Football has transformed my life and my family’s lives forever — and for that, I'm forever grateful."
He added, "As I step into the newest season of my life, please know this game has meant the world to me. The lessons learned on and off the field will stay with me forever."
Smith did not disclose the reason behind his sudden retirement.
Smith's NFL Career
The Greenville, Alabama, native and former University of Kentucky standout was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens with the 122nd overall pick in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft.
He went on to play for the Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions and the Eagles.
In his five games with the Eagles, Smith started two games at defensive end. Last year with the Browns and Lions, Smith recorded nine sacks.
The three-time Pro Bowler ends his NFL career with 343 total tackles and 70.5 sacks.
The Eagles were already hurting with injuries to the defensive line. Smith's retirement makes the unit that much thinner.
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