The Ravens have lost their sack leader from last season, as outside linebacker Za'Darius Smith has officially been signed by the Green Bay Packers.
It's a four-year deal worth $66 million with a $20 million signing bonus, per his agent.
Smith had his best season in 2018 with 8 ½ sacks and a career-high 45 tackles, including 10 tackles for loss.
As one of the best pass rushers on the open market at age 26, Smith was guaranteed to draw heavy interest in free agency and the Packers have been determined to upgrade their pass rush. Green Bay reportedly tried to trade for Smith a few seasons ago and decided to make him a primary target during free agency.
The exit of Smith continues an offseason of change for the Ravens defense, with the departures of inside linebacker C.J. Mosley (New York Jets), outside linebacker Terrell Suggs (Arizona Cardinals), and safety Eric Weddle (Los Angeles Rams).
Smith made it clear last season that he was motivated to have his best year as an impending free agent. He delivered on that promise, recording three sacks when the Ravens shut out the Tennessee Titans in October, and surpassing his previous career high of 5 ½ sacks as a rookie in 2015.
