Packers two-time Pro Bowl LB Za'Darius Smith designated to return from IR
The Green Bay Packers have the luxury of a bye week to rest up and heal from injuries before they play a yet-to-be-determined opponent in the NFC Divisional round of the playoffs. By then, they could very well have a two-time Pro Bowl defender who hasn't played since September rejoining the fold.
Smith -- who is in his seventh NFL season and third with the Packers -- was placed on injured reserve in mid-September with a back injury and has been limited to one game this season. The 29-year-old earned his first two Pro Bowl nods in 2019 and 2020.
The pass rusher has recorded 227 tackles, 112 quarterback hits and 44.5 sacks in 91 career contests split between the Packers and Baltimore Ravens. In 2019, Smith had a career-high 55 tackles and 13.5 sacks.
During the 2020 season, Smith led all Green Bay players in quarterback hits (23), sacks (12.5), tackles for a loss (12) and forced fumbles (four).
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