Jaylon Smith Aiming for NFL Comeback with Raiders’ Minicamp

Las Vegas, NV – Veteran linebacker Jaylon Smith is participating in the Las Vegas Raiders’ rookie minicamp on a tryout basis this weekend, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Smith, 29, has been a free agent since the end of the 2023 season.

Smith signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers‘ practice squad on December 27 but did not see any game action. He last played in a regular-season game with the Raiders in 2023, recording 25 defensive snaps and two tackles.

The Dallas Cowboys selected Smith as a second-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, despite the severe knee injury he sustained during his final college game at Notre Dame. After missing his entire rookie season due to the injury, Smith went on to have a productive career.

In 2019, he earned his first Pro Bowl selection while with the Cowboys, amassing a career-high 142 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. His performance helped the Cowboys secure an NFC East division title that season.

After spending five seasons in Dallas, Smith faced challenges with consistency. He played briefly for the New York Giants and Green Bay Packers in 2021. In his only full season with the Giants, he recorded 88 tackles and a sack.

Smith’s journey has continued to be tumultuous; he missed all of 2024 but is hopeful for a fresh start with the Raiders. The team’s upcoming training camp offers him another opportunity as he competes for a roster spot.

Smith remains familiar with the Raiders’ coaching staff, including defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, which may aid in his adaptation to the team’s system. He looks forward to demonstrating his skills this weekend.