What happened: Smith stepped away five games into last season after a doctor said his mother had little time left, allowing him to spend time with her. He returned to football this month and signed with Atlanta on Aug. 18.
Why it matters: The move gives Atlanta an experienced edge defender ahead of the 2026 season. Smith brings 11 seasons of NFL experience to a younger position group.
By the numbers: Smith has 70.5 sacks, 87 tackles for loss and 11 forced fumbles across 145 career games.
What to watch: Smith is targeting padded practice next week.