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Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Za’Darius Smith is expected to sign with the Green Bay Packers:
The #Packers are expected to bring in a huge addition, bringing in former #Ravens edge rusher Za'Darius Smith, sources say. They tried to trade for him a few years ago, are in prime position to sign him now.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 12, 2019
Smith, a fourth round pick in the 2015 draft, broke out in 2018 with 8.5 sacks, 10 tackles for a loss and 25 quarterback hits. Terms of the contract were not immediately available.
After losing Smith, their 2018 sack leader and Terrell Suggs, the franchise’s all time sack leader, Baltimore will likely be in the market for pass rushers. 2017 draft picks Tim Williams and Tyus Bowser have combined to produce 5.5 sacks since entering the league.
New general manager Eric DeCosta has approximately $26 million in salary cap space and three early round draft picks available for use this offseason. After the first wave of free agency, many positions could use reinforcements.
Gone from the Ravens this offseason: LB C.J. Mosley, OLB Za'Darius Smith, S Eric Weddle, OLB Terrell Suggs, WR Michael Crabtree & QB Joe Flacco, while GM Ozzie Newsome retired.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) March 12, 2019
A year of transition in Baltimore.
Given the situation DeCosta inherited, significant roster turnover from the 2018 AFC North champion squad was inevitable.