NEWSLETTER
Za’Darius Smith thanked Vikings fans on Twitter today after he reportedly asked for a release from Minnesota.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, however, Smith’s release is just wishful thinking. Rapoport reports that Smith told the team he wants to be released, but the Vikings haven’t honored his request. Rapoport says the Vikings do not plan to release Smith, at least for now.
The edge rusher signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Vikings last offseason after spending the previous three years in Green Bay. Smith was originally drafted by the Ravens, and is heading into his age 31 season.
Za’Darius Smith recorded 10 sacks in 16 games with the Vikings. He signed with the Vikings last season off of a season mostly lost to injury in Green Bay. I imagine that Smith is betting that his market value will be higher after a nice bounce-back campaign this time.
The Vikings don’t plan on releasing him at this point. Minnesota has already released veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks this week, and they’re rumored to be heading for a split with wide receiver Adam Thielen.
