Cowboys activate Jaylon Smith, but 2016 debut unlikely

The Dallas Cowboys have activated 2016 second-round pick Jaylon Smith from the non-football injury list, executive vice president Stephen Jones said Monday on 105.3 The Fan, according to Todd Archer of ESPN.

However, Jones acknowledged the linebacker is still unable to practice as he recovers from nerve damage sustained from a knee injury during his final game at Notre Dame.

The Cowboys have a three-week window to add Smith to their 53-man roster. If not, he'll be shut down for the year, which appears likely, barring a miraculous recovery.

It was always highly unlikely that Smith would be able to play this season, with 2017 a more realistic goal to start his NFL career.

The Cowboys also activated running back Darren McFadden (elbow) from the NFI list. He, too, will have a three-week window to be added, but it's unlikely unless the Cowboys suffer an injury at the position.