The Dallas Cowboys have released former Pro Bowl linebacker Jaylon Smith in what could be considered a cost-cutting move because of a guaranteed salary next season in the case of an injury.
Smith’s role had been greatly reduced after Dallas drafted Micah Parsons 12th overall and moved free-agent pickup Keanu Neal to linebacker from safety.
Smith, a Notre Dame product, was drafted by Dallas with the 34th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. He sat out the entire 2016 season after sustaining a knee injury in the Fighting Irish’s Fiesta Bowl appearance.