Cowboys executive Stephen Jones is optimistic that linebacker Jaylon Smith will be an effective player in 2017, but he would be making NFL history by doing so. There has been “no significant change” in Smith’s nerve damage, a source tells Ian Rapoport of NFL.com (on Twitter). Because his nerve still isn’t firing, he’ll have to play in a game with a brace for drop foot (link), something no other player has done before, to our knowledge. The Cowboys are no longer waiting for that nerve to recover and they’re proceeding as if he’ll play anyway (link). 
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Smith, a Notre Dame product, was expected to be a Top 10 pick in the 2016 draft. Unfortunately, a knee injury suffered late in his collegiate career put his NFL dreams in flux. The Cowboys took a gamble by drafting Smith in the second round last year, but he has so far been unable to take the field. Hopefully, the brace will allow Smith to resume his playing career without hindering his effectiveness.
During his final season at Notre Dame, the linebacker compiled 115 tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble. If he’s healthy, he could make a huge impact on the Cowboys’ front seven.
This is why we will start to see more players skip their team’s bowl game! Smith would have been a top 10 pick if not for a cheap block to the knees! It’s not just about money, it’s also about just playing at the next level.
Wasn’t blocked at the knees – was simply pushed and planted that leg awkwardly. FYi.
Still find it amazing the Cowboys chose Smith with Myles Jack available.
Jack is about to get regular playing time in 17 l’ also but is completely healthy.
Not a Cowboys fan at all but I am praying for this dude. He seems like not only a potentially great player if he can get healthy, but a genuinely good dude.