Cowboys ignore knee concerns, take LB Jaylon Smith early in 2nd round

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The Dallas Cowboys have made a splash.

Dallas selected linebacker Jaylon Smith out of Notre Dame in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft, 34th overall, despite significant concerns about his knee injury.

Smith isn't expected to play in 2016 because of a torn ACL and LCL he suffered late last season with the Fighting Irish. Dallas is no stranger to dealing with linebackers with injuries, as Sean Lee has had a difficult time staying healthy over the years.

The bonus of landing in Dallas for Smith is the Cowboys' doctors treated his injury, so they'll be aware of any issues that could arise.

When Smith does hit the field, though, he should improve the Cowboys' defense greatly. Smith recorded a whopping 115 tackles last season in South Bend.

Jaylon Smith Bio

Position: LB
School: Notre Dame
College Experience: Junior
Height: 6-2
Weight: 235 lbs.

Strengths

• An elite level athlete at his position.
• Fluid mover in space. Has the range, agility, and speed to cover all over the field.
• High motor, versatility means he can play every down.
• Strong tackler, consistently wraps up runners and drives them backwards.
• Ideal size and strength, which allows him to consistently engage and shed blockers in run defense.
• Shows flashes of being a threatening pass-rusher, although given limited opportunities.
• Top-notch sideline-to-sideline speed.

Weaknesses

• Potential nerve damage after left knee injury could jeopardize career, or at the very least, rob Smith of his rookie year.
• Inconsistent against the run. Can over-pursue and is vulnerable to cut backs.
• Can sometimes be slow to diagnose the direction of the run, causing him to be out of position.

Pro Day Results

Due to his significant knee injury, Smith was unable to participate at any events during the combine, and only the bench press at Notre Dame's pro day