Dallas Cowboys release linebacker Jaylon Smith, per source

The Cowboys have taken a big step defensively.

Dallas has eliminated outside linebacker Jaylon Smith, according to a source. The move was first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

What could be behind the sudden decision?

It could be that the Cowboys were uncomfortable with the $ 9.2 million Smith is carrying in the form of his 2022 injury guarantee. The Notre Dame fifth-year linebacker still owes $ 7.2 million. of dollars.

SportsDay’s Michael Gehlken wrote the following about Smith’s contract and availability in September:

Jaylon Smith hasn’t missed a practice or regular season game in four years. This includes in 2020 when he suffered an injury to his left wrist that required surgery in January. The Cowboys linebacker, in fact, barely left the field last season, playing all defensive snaps in all but three games.

Availability matters in the NFL.

Smith has achieved this to a rare degree, his feat of 48 starts and around 95% defensive snaps played over the past three years is particularly impressive given the devastating leg injury that ended his college career.

The Cowboys are heavily invested in the pursuit of his medical fortune. It cannot be comfortable.

Smith’s short- and long-term future in Dallas is one of the most fascinating pieces of the Cowboys’ defense going into Thursday’s opener at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Less of Smith is expected to be seen as a result of recent investments in his post. And yet, for the team, a significant financial risk is associated with it.

In 2021, Smith is playing under a salary of $ 7.2 million which became fully guaranteed in March. Next year, he is expected to receive a salary of $ 9.2 million, which will become fully guaranteed if Smith remains on the list on March 20, 2022.

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A major injury in 2021 can trigger the 2022 injury guarantee in Smith’s contract. If he cannot pass his physical exam until March 20, his salary of $ 9.2 million would be fully guaranteed.

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Smith recorded a tackle on 28 defensive snaps in the Cowboys’ 36-28 win over the Carolina Panthers last Sunday.

This story will be updated when more information becomes available.

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