Cowboys To Open 'What-If Window' For LB Jaylon Smith
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FRISCO (105.3 THE FAN) - The Dallas Cowboys are opening up the "What-If Window'' for rookie linebacker Jaylon Smith.
On Monday, Cowboys COO Stephen Jones spoke with us at 105.3 The Fan, telling "G-Bag Nation'' that the team will 'probably' activate both Smith and running back Darren McFadden ahead of the NFL-imposed deadline of Tuesday.
The moves in no way guarantee roster spots for the two players, but rather, creates a three-week window for the team to make a decision on giving them a roster spot.
In the case of McFadden, who has been sidelined all season with an elbow injury, this is about insurance at the position. The Cowboys are already deep at running back, but if a need arises in the next three weeks, McFadden can take that spot.
In the case of Smith, the second-round rookie drafted with the understanding that getting the nerve in his knee to regenerate will be a long-term process, this is a zero-risk move that means in the unlikely event Smith heals in the next 21 days, he can be moved to the roster. Had Dallas not made the move by Tuesday, Smith would've been ineligible to be on the 53-man this year.
Jones noted that Smith won't be practicing with the team but rather simply continuing his rehab process.
The Cowboys also have tight end James Hanna on an injured list with a "bone bruise'' in his knee. It is unlikely the team elevates him.
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