Za’darius Smith Net Worth, Salary, Career Earnings, and Financial Overview

Za’Darius Smith is a standout NFL defensive end known for his exceptional pass-rushing skills and leadership on the field. Over the years, he has played for teams like the Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns, and most recently, the Detroit Lions. As of 2025, Za’Darius Smith’s net worth is estimated to be $100,967,546, amassed through lucrative contracts, signing bonuses, and endorsement deals. In this article, we delve into Za’Darius Smith’s net worth, salary, career earnings, and financial outlook, providing a comprehensive view of his financial success and what the future holds.

Za’Darius Smith Quick Facts

Fact	Detail
Real Name	Za’Darius Smith
Birth Date	September 8, 1992
Age (As of 2025)	32
Birthplace	Greenville, Alabama, USA
Nationality	American
Education	University of Kentucky
Marital Status	Married
Children	2
Height	1.93 meters (6 feet 4 inches)
Net Worth	$100,967,546 (Estimated)
Source of Wealth	NFL Contracts, Endorsements

What is the Net Worth of Za’Darius Smith in 2025?

Za’Darius Smith’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be $100,967,546, primarily accumulated from NFL contracts, signing bonuses, and performance incentives. Since being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2015, Smith’s earnings have grown significantly due to strategic contracts and strong on-field performances.

Compared to other elite defensive ends in the NFL, Smith’s net worth is impressive, though not the highest. Players like Myles Garrett and Nick Bosa have secured larger contracts, but Smith’s financial standing remains competitive, placing him among the top earners at his position.

How Much Does Za’Darius Smith Make in 2025?

In 2025, Za’Darius Smith’s salary is projected to be $11 million, which includes:

• Base Salary: $1.5 million
• Signing Bonus: $2 million (from contract restructuring)
• Performance Incentives: Up to $7.5 million based on sacks, tackles, and Pro Bowl selections.

His current contract with the Detroit Lions reflects a balance of guaranteed money and performance-based incentives, allowing him to maximize his earnings while proving his value on the field.

Career Earnings Breakdown

Since entering the NFL in 2015, Za’Darius Smith has accumulated substantial career earnings. Here is a breakdown of his financial progression:

1. 2015-2018 (Baltimore Ravens):
   • Earnings: Approximately $4 million
   • Details: Rookie contract with a base salary and performance bonuses.
2. 2019-2021 (Green Bay Packers):
   • Contract: Four-year, $66 million deal
   • Signing Bonus: $20 million
   • Total Earnings: Approximately $44 million during this period.
3. 2022 (Minnesota Vikings):
   • Contract: Three-year, $42 million deal
   • Earnings: $10 million for one season before being traded.
4. 2023-2024 (Cleveland Browns):
   • 2023 Earnings: $10.5 million
   • 2024 Earnings: $12 million (including a $10.79 million signing bonus).
5. 2025 (Detroit Lions):
   • Projected Earnings: $11 million
   • Contract Type: Partially guaranteed with performance bonuses.

Total Career Earnings: Over $100 million, positioning him as one of the highest-earning defensive ends in the NFL.

Contract Details and Financial Strategy

In November 2024, Za’Darius Smith signed a two-year contract extension with the Cleveland Browns before being traded to the Detroit Lions. Key features of his current contract include:

• Base Salary (2025): $1.5 million
• Signing Bonus: $2 million (spread over the contract)
• Incentives: Performance bonuses based on sacks, tackles for loss, and Pro Bowl selections.
• Guaranteed Money: Partially guaranteed with a focus on performance-based incentives.

This contract structure ensures financial stability while allowing Smith to increase his earnings through on-field performance.

How His Salary Compares to Other NFL Defensive Ends

Za’Darius Smith’s average salary of $11 million per year places him above average among NFL defensive ends but not at the very top. For comparison:

• Nick Bosa: $34 million per year
• Myles Garrett: $25 million per year
• Khalil Mack: $23.5 million per year
• Aaron Donald: $31 million per year

While Smith’s salary is lower than the elite pass rushers, his consistent earnings across multiple contracts demonstrate his ability to secure lucrative deals.

Endorsements and Off-Field Earnings

In addition to his NFL salary, Za’Darius Smith earns an estimated $1 million annually from endorsements. His key partnerships include:

1. Nike: Apparel and footwear deal.
2. Panini America: Trading cards and memorabilia.
3. Local Partnerships: Deals with auto dealerships and fitness brands in Detroit.

Smith’s endorsement strategy focuses on mid-sized, reliable partnerships rather than mega-deals, ensuring steady off-field income.

Financial Decisions and Strategic Moves

Za’Darius Smith’s financial success is attributed to several smart moves:

1. Contract Restructuring: Reworked his contract with the Green Bay Packers in 2020, receiving an extra $9.5 million in upfront money.
2. Agent’s Role: Erik Burkhardt, his agent, has been instrumental in securing team-friendly contracts with high guaranteed amounts.
3. Real Estate Investments: Owns properties in Alabama and Ohio, estimated to be worth $5 million.

These decisions have allowed him to maximize career earnings while preparing for life after football.

Future Financial Outlook

Za’Darius Smith’s future financial prospects are promising due to:

1. Continued NFL Performance: If he maintains his current form, another multi-year deal could push his career earnings beyond $150 million.
2. Endorsements Growth: Potential for national campaigns with larger brands if his popularity continues to rise.
3. Post-NFL Career: Likely to explore coaching, broadcasting, or business ventures.

With a strong financial foundation, Smith’s net worth could exceed $120 million by 2030 if current trends continue.

Conclusion

Za’Darius Smith’s net worth of $100,967,546 in 2025 is a testament to his skill, financial acumen, and the ability to leverage contracts and endorsements effectively. His career earnings, strategic moves, and diversified income sources position him as one of the most financially savvy players in the NFL.

As he continues to build on his career and expand his off-field ventures, Za’Darius Smith’s financial legacy is set to grow even further. His journey showcases how smart financial decisions can maximize the earnings potential of professional athletes in a highly competitive industry.