Report: Za'Darius Smith asks to be released from Vikings after 1 season
Pass-rusher Za'Darius Smith has requested to be released from the Minnesota Vikings after one season with the team, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
Minnesota doesn't plan to part ways with Smith, who signed a three-year, $42-million deal with the club last year, reports Rapoport. The 30-year-old, who racked up 10 sacks in 2022, tweeted his thanks to Vikings fans and members of the organization on Thursday.
I just want to say “Thank you!” to Skol Nation for an amazing season & experience! Thank you to all of my Teammates, Coaches & the entire Minnesota Vikings Organization! 💜 pic.twitter.com/LAVAy5jptS
— Za'Darius Smith (@zadariussmith) March 9, 2023
A Pro Bowler last season, Smith ranked second on the Vikings in sacks behind Danielle Hunter, who registered 10.5. Smith also led the team with 15 tackles for loss and 24 quarterback hits.
The three-time Pro Bowler joined Minnesota in the 2022 offseason after backing out of a four-year contract with the Baltimore Ravens that was reportedly worth up to $50 million. Smith previously played for the Ravens (2015-18) and Green Bay Packers (2019-21).
The Vikings would save $12.15 million by cutting Smith, according to Spotrac. That number goes up to $13.8 million if the veteran defender is released with a post-June 1 designation.
The salary cap has been an issue for Minnesota this year, as it's currently $14.9 million over the cap, per Spotrac. The Vikings recently cut veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks to free up $9.5 million in cap space.