Packers placing edge-rusher Za'Darius Smith on IR with back injury
Za'Darius Smith won't see the field again for at least three weeks.
The Green Bay Packers are placing the edge rusher on injured reserve with a back injury, according to NFL Network's Stacey Dales.
Smith, who was dealing with the injury during Week 1, played 18 defensive snaps in a 38-3 loss to the New Orleans Saints. He had one tackle.
Despite Smith going to injured reserve, Packers head coach Matt LaFleur said he's comfortable with the decision to let the 29-year-old play against the Saints.
In 16 games last season, Smith had 12.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, 52 tackles, 12 tackles for a loss and 23 quarterback hits.
Smith is in the third year of a four-year, $66 million deal with the Packers. He spent four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens before signing with Green Bay after the 2018 season.
With Smith sidelined, Jonathan Garvin should see more playing time in the coming weeks.
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