ARLINGTON – Jerry Jones and the Cowboys have given several players second chances at salvaging careers in recent years. Greg Hardy, Rolando McClain and Randy Gregory -- to name a few -- have all flashed talent while dealing with suspensions for a variety of reasons.
On Wednesday night, that trend continued.
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As first reported by FOX NFL Insider Jay Glazer, Dallas has signed maligned pass rusher Aldon Smith to a one year, $4 million contract. A 7th overall pick in 2011 for the 49ers, Smith hasn’t seen live NFL action since 2015, and he’s served multiple suspensions for violating both the league’s substance-abuse policy and the Personal Conduct Policy. His off-the-field rap sheet includes an alleged hit-and-run, DUI and vandalism.
Breaking: The #dallascowboys have signed former Pro Bowl LB/DE Aldon Smith to a one-year, marking the end of a 4-year absence. Clean and sober now, incredible how much he’s turned his life around. @NFLonFOX @dallascowboys
— Jay Glazer (@JayGlazer) April 2, 2020
Several weeks ago, Smith applied for reinstatement to the NFL due to the league’s more relaxed substance-abuse policy under the new CBA. The decision to reinstate Smith resides with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. There is no timeline for the decision to be made.
When he was on the field, Smith proved to be a dominant force in San Francisco, racking up 33.5 sacks in his first 32 games. He was cut by the 49ers during the 2014 season and joined the Raiders for the 2015 campaign.
Breaking News from @JayGlazer live on FS1:
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) April 2, 2020
The @dallascowboys have agreed to terms with former Pro Bowl Edge Rusher Aldon Smith on a 1-year deal. Smith is coming back after a 4-year layoff. pic.twitter.com/DaZIiiykEr