Linebacker Jaylon Smith: From Tar Heel to Giant

Early Life and College Career

Jaylon Smith was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and attended Bishop Luers High School, where he played football, basketball, and track and field.

He was a consensus five-star recruit and committed to the University of Notre Dame to play college football.

After redshirting his first year in South Bend, Smith became a starter at linebacker for the Fighting Irish in 2013.

NFL Draft and Injury

Smith was considered one of the top prospects for the 2016 NFL Draft, but he suffered a season-ending knee injury in the Fiesta Bowl against Ohio State.

Despite the injury, the Dallas Cowboys selected Smith with the 34th overall pick in the draft.

He missed his entire rookie season while recovering from the injury.

NFL Career

Smith made his NFL debut in 2017 and quickly became a key contributor for the Cowboys.

He started 11 games in 2018 and recorded 131 tackles, 4 sacks, and 2 interceptions.

In 2019, Smith started all 16 games for the Cowboys and had 142 tackles, 5 sacks, and 2 interceptions.

In 2021, Smith signed a one-year contract with the Green Bay Packers.

He started 16 games for the Packers and had 127 tackles, 4 sacks, and 1 interception.

In 2022, Smith signed a one-year contract with the New York Giants.

Personal Life

Smith is a devout Christian and has spoken about his faith on several occasions.

He is also an advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken about his own struggles with depression.