News: USAToday: 7 best, most impactful plays of Jaylon Smith's breakout 2018 campaign

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On Tuesday the Dallas Cowboys and linebacker Jaylon Smith agreed to a 5-year contract extension worth $64 million, with $35.5 million guaranteed. When Smith was drafted by the Cowboys in 2016 the team knew his gruesome leg injury (that resulted in nerve damage) would require a great deal of time to mend. But even with proper rehabilitation, it was unclear if Smith could possess the same explosiveness he once had in college.

As expected, Smith’s injury forced him to miss the entire 2016 season. He admirably embarked on his football comeback in the 2017 season, but Smith’s abilities seemed distant from his Notre Dame days. He managed to play in all 16 games that season and earned a starting nod in six of them. Smith would rank third on the team in tackles that year with 81 in total. It was not always pretty, but by season’s end the Cowboys were convinced they had found a cornerstone player on defense.

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Against the odds, Smith was able to shatter all expectations in the 2018 season, not only becoming one of the best players on the defense, but also one of the best linebackers in the NFL. Pro Football Focus ranked him as their Breakout Player of the Year.

It has been quite the journey for Smith, and to celebrate his new extension, here is a look at some of his best plays of the 2018 season.

No. 7: Smith tackles RB Alvin Kamara in the open field

https://media.giphy.com/media/XGgTWI3GwB9aBbHTN4/source.mp4

Against the New Orleans Saints in Week 13, Smith showcased his speed in pursuit of Kamara. What stands out about this play is Smith’s burst to the sideline, which ultimately saved a touchdown. Just a season ago, analysts were quick to point out Smith’s suboptimal play speed, but judging by this play, his athleticism appears to be rekindled.

No.6: Smith mirrors QB Russell Wilson in the divisional round

https://media.giphy.com/media/ZEqYyQYkr7PZkv5yfE/source.mp4

For the Seattle Seahawks, Wilson has made a living operating out of structure, like when he is forced out of the pocket.

On this play the Seahawks motioned to an empty-backfield set. With the Cowboys playing man-coverage on defense, Smith’s objective was to keep Wilson in front of him on the play. As Wilson left the pocket Smith was able to follow him step for step eventually batting down the pass at the sideline.

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