Cowboys to release linebacker Jaylon Smith: report

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The Dallas Cowboys reportedly released linebacker Jaylon Smith on Tuesday.

Smith, a former Notre Dame standout, will still be owed a $7.2 million base salary. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones spoke with Smith on Tuesday about the decision, ESPN reported citing sources.

Dallas Cowboys cornerback Anthony Brown (30), Jaylon Smith (9) and others celebrate an interception by Brown in the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles in Arlington, Texas, Monday, Sept. 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth) ((AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth))

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According to the report, the Cowboys had trade discussions regarding Smith, but nothing happened. Dallas was willing to pay some of Smith's salary in order to make a deal work.

Rookie Micah Parsons and veterans Keanu Neal and Leighton Vander Esch are expected to continue to anchor the linebacker positions for the Cowboys.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) runs the ball as Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) attempts to make the stop in the second half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Monday, Sept. 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth) ((AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth))

Smith was drafted No. 34 overall by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft. In August of 2019, Smith signed a five-year, $64 million contract extension with Dallas, which included $35.5 million guaranteed.

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He was under contract with the team through the 2024 season.

Smith’s best year came back in 2019 when he was elected as team captain for the first time. He piled up 142 total tackles — 83 solo tackles — with nine passes defended, three QB hits, 2.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and one interception.

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) gives chase as Philadelphia Eagles running back Miles Sanders (26) runs the ball in the second half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Monday, Sept. 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth) ((AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth))

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Another linebacker-needy team will likely come calling for Smith’s services in the near future.