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Packers OLB Za'darius Smith had back surgery, according to NFL Network

The Packers hope Smith will be able to return later this season, according to the original report.

Paul Sancya/AP

FILE- In this Dec. 13, 2020, file photo, Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Za'Darius Smith (55) plays against the Detroit Lions during the first half of an NFL football game in Detroit. The back issue that bothered Smith throughout the preseason will now force the Packers to play without their Pro Bowl pass rusher for the next few weeks. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, File)

By: Brandon Kinnard

Posted

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GREEN BAY, Wis. (NBC 26) — It's gone from bad to worse for Za'Darius Smith.

The Packers top pass rusher will be out for an extended period of time after having surgery on his injured back, according to NFL Network.

When the #Packers put their star pass-rusher on IR, the hope was Za’Darius Smith would return in 3 weeks. It’ll be longer. But Smith should return in 2021 late in the season. https://t.co/AmLygS47zt
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 1, 2021

Smith practiced only once in training camp because of the injury and was limited in the season opener against the Saints. Just days later, he was placed on injured reserve.

Without him, the Packers have only three sacks through three games.