Stephen A. Smith would like to see the Dallas Cowboys' defense take on more experienced QBs before he can support their success. (1:39).
FRISCO (Texas) -- Jaylon Smith, the Dallas Cowboys' linebacker, has been released by the Cowboys, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Smith has never missed a single game during his entire career. The Cowboys will also be responsible for his $7.2 million base salary. Sources say that the team discussed trade options earlier in the season but no deal was reached. The Cowboys have now released Smith, removing them from the $9.2million base salary in 2022, which was only guaranteed for injury.
According to a source, Jerry Jones, the general manager and owner of the company met with Smith Tuesday to discuss the team’s decision.
Smith signed a 5-year, $64million extension in 2019, which included $35.5 million guaranteed money. Smith played every game from 2018-20, including the opener against Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He was also named to the Pro Bowl in 2019.
Smith didn't start any of the four first games this season. Smith was awarded 19 tackles and participated in 148 of the 264 snaps.
The Cowboys made a big impression with Micah Parsons, their first round pick, and were happy with the decision, despite the financial implications. Leighton Vander Elsch was the starter in Sunday's victory against the Carolina Panthers. They expect to have Keanu Neal, who is on the reserve/COVID-19 roster this week. On the active roster, they also have Jabril Cx and Luke Gifford as linebackers.
Despite a serious knee injury that he sustained in Notre Dame's final game, Smith was selected by the Cowboys in the second round. Because Dr. Daniel Cooper was one of the Cowboys' team physicians and dispelled any fears about permanent nerve damage, Smith was confident that he would be back.
Smith was on the field for six of the 16 games in 2017. He finished with 99 tackles and one sack. Smith was promoted to a full-time starter the following year, and he recorded at least 150 tackles in the three subsequent seasons.
His best year was 2018, with a 69-yard return of a fumble for a touchdown. Although he recorded 14 tackles in six games, his coverage and movement abilities seemed to have dropped.
