Former Cowboys Linebacker Jaylon Smith Gets NFL Comeback Opportunity with Raiders Minicamp Tryout

Former Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaylon Smith, who has been out of the NFL since 2023, is reportedly getting another shot at making it back to the big leagues. The linebacker, once considered one of the top young defensive players in the league, has been given a tryout with the Las Vegas Raiders during their minicamp. This opportunity marks a crucial moment in Smith’s career as he attempts to revive his NFL journey after a series of challenges that have kept him out of the league for over a year.

The Rise of Jaylon Smith

Jaylon Smith’s NFL journey began with great promise. Drafted in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys, Smith was considered one of the top linebacker prospects in the country. His athleticism, football IQ, and ability to make plays both against the run and in coverage made him a highly coveted player. However, his road to the NFL was not without its hurdles.

While playing for Notre Dame, Smith suffered a devastating knee injury during the 2016 Fiesta Bowl, tearing both his ACL and LCL, and causing extensive nerve damage. The injury was severe enough to raise concerns about whether he would ever play football again, let alone perform at an elite level. Despite this, Smith impressed doctors and scouts with his determination and recovery, ultimately earning a spot on the Cowboys’ roster.

His early years in the NFL showcased his incredible work ethic and resilience, as he worked tirelessly to return to full form. By his second season, Smith had established himself as a starting linebacker and quickly became one of the most dynamic defensive players on the Cowboys roster. Over the next few seasons, Smith showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in his ability to cover running backs and tight ends in the passing game, an area where few linebackers excel. His combination of size, speed, and awareness made him a weapon for the Cowboys defense.

A Decline and Departure from Dallas

Despite his early success, Smith’s career with the Cowboys began to hit a rough patch. Injuries continued to plague him, and his performance began to decline. While his physical abilities were still evident, his effectiveness on the field was inconsistent. In 2021, after a lackluster season, the Cowboys made the difficult decision to release Smith, parting ways with a player they once saw as a cornerstone of their defense.

The move shocked many, considering the promise Smith had shown early in his career. But the Cowboys’ front office ultimately decided that his performances didn’t match his potential, and the team was in need of a change. Following his departure from Dallas, Smith had brief stints with other teams, including the Green Bay Packers, but it was clear that his time in the NFL was far from secure.

For the next couple of years, Smith struggled to find a permanent home. Despite working out with various teams and even receiving interest from a few franchises, he was unable to latch onto a roster and remain healthy enough to contribute at a high level.

The Raider’s Minicamp Tryout: A New Beginning?

Fast forward to 2024, and Jaylon Smith is getting another shot at the NFL, this time with the Las Vegas Raiders. The opportunity came as a result of a minicamp tryout, which offers players an opportunity to prove their worth in front of coaches, scouts, and management. The Raiders have a new-look defense and are looking to bolster their linebacker corps, and Smith is looking to earn a spot on the team.

It’s a make-or-break moment for the 28-year-old, who has been out of the NFL since 2023. Smith’s tryout with the Raiders is significant not only because it gives him a chance to return to the NFL, but also because it marks the beginning of a potential comeback story — one that would be full of determination and resilience.

For Smith, the minicamp tryout represents a final opportunity to prove that he can still compete at the highest level of football. It’s been over a year since his last NFL game, and much has changed in the league during that time. Many players who were once considered young stars have aged or moved on, and new talent has emerged. But Smith is determined to show that he still has the skills and passion to contribute to a team’s success.

The Raiders’ Defensive Needs

For the Las Vegas Raiders, the need for solid linebacker play has been a focal point in recent seasons. The team has struggled to find consistent playmakers at the linebacker position, and their defense has often been one of the weaker units in the league. In their search for improvements, the Raiders signed a number of new players and have been active in exploring free-agent options.

Adding a veteran like Jaylon Smith to their lineup could provide a boost to their defensive unit. While Smith may not be the same player he once was in his prime, he brings with him experience, leadership, and an understanding of the NFL game that younger players may lack. His experience with the Cowboys, both in big games and in a high-pressure environment, could be valuable for a team looking to make a push for the playoffs.

Smith’s ability to play both as an inside and outside linebacker could also make him a versatile asset to the Raiders’ defense. His pass-coverage skills, which once made him a standout in Dallas, are still considered one of his greatest strengths. If he can prove he’s regained his former form and can stay healthy, Smith could easily earn a role in the Raiders’ rotation.

The Mental Aspect of Jaylon Smith’s Journey

What’s often overlooked in stories like Jaylon Smith’s is the mental and emotional toll that being on the fringe of the NFL can have on a player. The constant battle with injuries, the uncertainty of not knowing where or when your next opportunity will come, and the pressure to stay relevant in a league that constantly churns out young talent can weigh heavily on an athlete.

Smith’s resilience throughout these challenges has been commendable. While many players would have given up after enduring the setbacks he’s faced, Smith has continually found ways to get back on the field. His dedication to his craft and his refusal to quit are part of the reason why, even at 28, he still has a chance at returning to the NFL.

The Road Ahead: A Longshot, But Not Impossible

Despite the excitement surrounding his tryout with the Raiders, it’s important to remember that Jaylon Smith’s path back to the NFL is far from guaranteed. The Raiders will have to evaluate his performance closely during the minicamp, and even if he impresses, there are no guarantees of a contract. In the NFL, there are always more players vying for limited spots on a team, and Smith’s chances depend not just on his performance but on how the Raiders view his fit within their system.

But even if this opportunity doesn’t lead to an immediate return to the NFL, it’s not the end for Smith. The experience he gains from working out with a professional team can provide valuable insights into his future. He could also explore other opportunities within the football world, whether it be in the XFL, CFL, or as a mentor and coach for younger players.

Jaylon Smith’s journey has been a rollercoaster of triumphs, setbacks, and hard-fought comebacks. His time with the Dallas Cowboys was full of promise, but injuries and inconsistency led to his eventual departure. His latest tryout with the Las Vegas Raiders represents a final shot at redemption — a chance to remind the NFL world that he still has what it takes to be a contributor at the highest level.

The Raiders may offer him the platform to once again showcase his talent. Whether or not this tryout results in a full-time spot on the roster, it’s clear that Jaylon Smith’s determination and love for the game have not diminished. In the world of professional football, opportunities are never guaranteed — but with perseverance, a player like Smith can make the most of any chance that comes his way.