FRISCO, TEXAS — After many self-inflicted violations of the NFL’s policy on substance abuse and personal conduct, Aldon Smith has made his journey back to the league and the Cowboys’ virtual offseason program following his reinstatement.
Smith has not played since 2015 and while expectations may be up-in-the-air, Mike McCarthy gave the 287-pounder a glowing review.
“ He is such an impressive young man and his path to Dallas is special and unique, so just thankful and blessed to be apart of this opportunity with him. You know, he wants to get back professionally and be productive. He’s in great physical shape. “
Alongside his road to sobriety, Smith worked with Jay Glazer who gave raving reviews on Smith’s size, as did McCarthy.
“ He’s bigger and stronger than he was when we had a chance to compete against him there when he was with the 49ers. Obviously, playing at an elite level so I think it will be exciting to see him on the field and get back into it. He’s in a great place and very thankful for him being apart of the Dallas Cowboys.”
Dallas got a viable replacement for Robert Quinn at right defensive end with the low-risk, high-reward Smith. Prior to his indefinite suspension in 2015, Smith made a name for himself as not only one of the league’s most dominant edge rushers but also a capable run defender; A guy that explodes off the edge and rushes with purpose. In 59 games played during his five-year tenure, Smith racked up 172 total tackles and 47.5 sacks.
He will be a solid fit in Mike Nolan’s scheme in Dallas with his insane athleticism. In 2020, the Cowboys will predominately be a base 4-3 defense but will include some 3-4 looks. Smith could line up as a 4-3 defensive end or as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 with his innate ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
