Report: NFL teams believe Jaylon Smith will miss 2016 season

A devastating leg injury suffered in this year's Fiesta Bowl appears likely to delay the start of Jaylon Smith's NFL career.

The standout Notre Dame linebacker underwent medical evaluations at the combine Friday, confirming that he's dealing with nerve issues in both his ankle and knee, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

NFL teams reportedly believe that the nerve damage, in addition to the tears of both the ACL and LCL in his left knee, will keep Smith out for at least the 2016 season.

Prior to the injury, Smith was widely considered to be the top available linebacker prospect. Several projections had him coming off the board somewhere within the top five picks, and occasionally at the No. 1 overall spot.

With his recovery timeline uncertain at best, it remains to be seen whether a team is willing to take a chance on him at any point in the first round.

Smith, according to ESPN's Darren Rovell, has a $5-million loss of value policy in place. He reportedly begins to receive money if he's passed over in the opening round as a result of his injury.