Za'Darius Smith opened up Wednesday about his sudden retirement last season with the Eagles, explaining that he left the game to be with his mother before her death. Smith retired after just five games with Philadelphia, per Yahoo Sports' Ryan Young, after learning his mother was sick and didn't have long to live.

Smith has since come out of retirement to join the Falcons, entering his 12th year in the NFL. At his first press conference with Atlanta, the defensive end addressed the decision that surprised the Eagles organization. According to one Reddit post citing his remarks, Smith said his mother always wanted him to end up in Atlanta.

Falcons defensive line coach Nate Ollie said Smith is fitting in well with the team. "Still got that juice," Ollie said of the veteran, adding that Smith is "coaching guys up already."