Packers' Za'Darius Smith on Track to Finish 2019 as NFL Leader in QB Hits

In terms of the NFL's 2019 Defensive Player of the Year nominees, we are beside ourselves that Packers' world-beater Za'Darius Smith is getting next to no recognition.

Green Bay's heralded offseason acquisition has been wreaking havoc in opponents' backfields since Week 1, and, as the regular season draws to a close, he's closing in on finishing as the league leader in an impressive stat.

Entering Week 17, Smith's 35 quarterback hits are good enough for the No. 1 spot, two tallies ahead of TJ Watt's 33.

Ironically enough, a profusion of Packers fans were exasperated that the organization passed on Watt in first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. To be fair, he has since established himself as on of the game's elite pass rushers.

Smith's production, however, should have Green Bay buffs burying that hatchet. His impact on the Packer pass rush cannot be understated, and his imposing showing against the Vikings in Week 16 is a perfect testament to his importance for the NFC North's top dogs.

SHEESH.

For the season, Smith has logged 54 tackles (17 for loss), 13.5 sacks, one forced fumble, and those 35 QB hits.

That man absolutely deserves to have his name mentioned in the DPOY conversation. Say it louder for the people in the back!