Jerry Jones Says Jaylon Smith "Is Not Behind" In Recovery From Nerve Damage
By: Josh Clark
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DALLAS (105.3 The Fan) - Cowboys owner Jerry Jones joined Shan and RJ on 105.3 The Fan Tuesday morning to provide an update on second round pick Jaylon Smith.
We already know the chances of Smith playing this season are virtually zero, but the hope is that he can make a full recovery from the nerve damage he suffered in his left knee and be ready to play in 2017.
Back in early May, Jones was very optimistic about Smith playing in 2016, saying, "Although we got a red shirt for the most part (on Smith), I will not IR him," said Jones. "We will take the chance that he could get back at the latter part of the season, maybe into the playoffs."
Today, Jones seemed to take a safer approach when discussing Smith's health, while saying he's not concerned about the linebacker.
"His progress is really undetermined. But that was to be expected. He is not off plan at all. The rejuvenation of the nerve that would help him get in position to actually hit the playing field is not complete, but it is not behind," said Jones. "It was to be expected. Our doctors are not dismayed at all. I'm not. It's the type of thing that could really come around. And if it comes around, then we'll take advantage of it and he's such an impact player that we would try to get him on the field."
Jones also went on to say that Smith is "doing many things that would let you use the word progress," and that Smith displays "unbelievable work ethic, character and resolve to help the team."
"It's just a timing thing for the nerve,'' Smith after he was drafted back in April. "It's too early in the process to tell. … We have to be patient and you know the nerve can come back tomorrow. It's just a timing thing. Whenever it wants to come back, it'll come back."
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