PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers are on the verge of a game-changing signing, nearing a deal with free-agent pass rusher Za’Darius Smith, sources told ESPN on Wednesday.
The 32-year-old veteran, boasting 69 career sacks, could bolster the Steelers’ defense as they aim to end a 9-year playoff win drought.Smith, a three-time Pro Bowler, has been a dominant force across 10 NFL seasons with the Packers, Vikings, Browns, and Lions.
In 2024, he recorded 5.5 sacks and 20 quarterback pressures (PFF), proving he remains a disruptive presence despite his age, making him an instant upgrade for Pittsburgh.The Steelers’ pursuit of Smith addresses a critical need for depth at defensive end, where T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith need support.
With Larry Ogunjobi now with the Bills and Keeanu Benton still developing, Smith’s experience could elevate Teryl Austin’s aggressive 3-4 scheme, per Steelers Depot.“MY DREAM IS TO WIN THE SUPER BOWL, AND JOINING THE STEELERS MAKES IT FEEL WITHIN REACH,” Smith reportedly told associates, excited about pairing with Watt.
His versatility—rushing from both end and interior alignments—fits Austin’s blitz-heavy approach perfectly.Negotiations point to a one-year, $10 million deal, a savvy move by GM Omar Khan, who has $32 million in cap space after recent restructures.
The signing follows Pittsburgh’s addition of wide receivers DK Metcalf and Keenan Allen, signaling an all-in push for 2025, per Spotrac.Smith’s age and injury history—he missed 13 games in 2021 due to a back issue—are concerns.
His $10 million cap hit could also limit future roster moves, but Behind the Steel Curtain notes his leadership and playoff experience (2.5 sacks in seven postseason games) outweigh the risks.
Steeler Nation is electric on X, with fans envisioning Smith and Watt overwhelming offensive lines. SI.com compares his potential impact to James Harrison’s late-career resurgence, though success hinges on the offensive line—led by Zach Frazier and Troy Fautanu—giving the defense leads to work with.
If finalized, Smith’s arrival could transform Pittsburgh’s pass rush, complementing recent offensive moves like the Kaleb Johnson draft pick. As the Steelers chase their first playoff win since 2016, following a 2024 Wild Card loss to the Bills (4-13), this signing underscores their relentless pursuit of championship glory.