FRISCO, Texas — Former Dallas Cowboys’ defensive end Aldon Smith has reached a one-year deal with the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday, according to NFL reports.
After a four-year absence from the NFL (2016-2019) due to an indefinite suspension for multiple violations of the league’s substance abuse policy, Smith was reinstated by the NFL and signed a one-year deal with the Cowboys. He became an unrestricted free agent in March.
The 31-year-old concluded his 2020 campaign with five sacks, including three against the Seahawks in Week 3. He amassed 33 quarterback pressures, 48 tackles, five tackles for loss, and two fumble recoveries in 16 game starts. Smith returned one of those for a touchdown.
There was chatter that Seattle had expressed interest in Smith last season at the trade deadline, but he stayed with Dallas. He certainly put together an impressive performance in 2020 knocking Russell Wilson to the ground on multiple occasions that once again grabbed the coaches’ attention.
Regardless of the outcome, credit has to go where credit is due. Smith has a remarkable comeback story that inspired many across the globe during the global pandemic. He persevered and fought through many internal battles to turn his life around. Years ago, mental health was not a popular topic of discussion, and he helped shed light on the subject. He will now continue his journey in Seattle.
With Smith’s departure, edge rusher Randy Gregory will likely have an increased role opposite DeMarcus Lawrence for the Cowboys in 2021. Gregory returned from a suspension and notched 3.5 sacks in 10 games last season. Dallas’ current depth at defensive end includes Lawrence, Gregory, Tarell Basham, Bradlee Anae, Dorance Armstrong, and Ron’Dell Carter.
