“It was a wonderful feeling to tell my mom that — that she could quit working,” Za’darius Smith earlier remarked. It indeed reflected his true sentiments and deep affection for his mom, Sharon Smith. NFL veteran DE is making waves for his latest trade by the Detroit Lions. Reportedly, the Lions will be paying him $605,000 guaranteed this season and $11 million non-guaranteed next year. Additionally, Smith, 32 will be receiving a $1.5 million basic salary plus a $4.025 million signing bonus next season. His multimillion-dollar contract is indeed solidifying his current status in the NFL.

And, obviously, with his impressive stats for the season, he is drawing much attention. Interestingly, Za’darius recorded five sacks for the Cleveland Browns in the first nine games. And, throughout his 10 NFL seasons, ex- Ravens player posted 65 career sacks. It truly showcased his dominance. But, seemingly, it wouldn’t have been possible without his parents backing. His guardians, Robert Meeks and Sharon Smith have been by his side throughout his journey.

Who are Robert Meeks and Sharon Smith?

Ex-Packers’ OLB shares a very healthy bond with his parents. Reportedly, Sharon Smith served as a correctional officer for 22 years. And, through her job, she gave important life lessons to her NFL son. And, for this, even, Smith is forever grateful to her. Previously, the ex-Vikings player revealed that his mom brought him to the jail at a young age to see people he knew being imprisoned. And,  this experience changed his life and helped him stay out of trouble. Thus, Sharon instilled athletic determination and perseverance in him. However, there is very limited information available about Sharon’s personal background.

But, Sharon’s unique bond with her NFL star went viral multiple times. In 2019, when the Packers offered him a four-year, cool $66 million contract, he immediately asked his mom to “quit working”. Soon after he got the phone call about the Packers’ contract, he asked, “‘Ma, you ready to quit working?’. And, impressively, the response from his mom was pretty cool to that. She said, ‘My bag is already packed,” he further added. That indeed showcased his love for his mom.

Not only this but the mom and son’s charity work also brought significant attention during the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, they helped many by distributing hundreds of pizzas.

Sharon even previously disclosed Za’darius Smith’s perspective on giving back to the community.  “I told him that the kids were going to be out of school for the rest of the year. I told him how some people were giving them snack bags and lunches and he said, ‘Well, Mom I need to get something down there don’t I?” I said, ‘Yeah, you can. Let’s pray about it and see what we can come up with,” she stated.

It demonstrated that at his every endeavor, she has stood behind him.

Besides this, earlier Sharon’s reaction caught the attention of many when newly Lions DE gave her a unique Christmas Gift. Seemingly, Smith left his mom speechless with a huge Christmas check. Not only this, 6 years ago, the NFL star rewarded his mom with a new house. “ I’m happy to be able to bless my mom with a new home! Big blessings,” he stated.

This instance showcased Za’darius Smith’s affection with his mom. However, there is very limited info available about his dad, Robert Meeks beyond his name. Reportedly, Sharon bravely nurtured him and his older brother, Bob Meeks, alone.  Seemingly, she instilled athletic discipline in both of her sons.

Who are Sharon Smith’s athletic sons?

Just like Smith, his elder brother is also involved in sports. Reportedly, Bob Meeks is also a football enthusiast. He showcased his football skills while playing for Auburn from 1988 to 1991. As a center, he also played eight games for the Denver Broncos from 1992 to 1994.

Za’darius Smith also has a cousin, Davern Williams who made himself known as a defensive lineman at Troy University from 1999 to 2003. Davern made it in the NFL draft with the Miami Dolphins in 2003 and also played three games for the New York Giants in 2004. Moreover, his niece, Kristi Mokube, has also played college basketball at Florida State University. Indeed, athleticism runs quite deep in the family.