Jaylon Smith feels ‘amazing’ coming into new season

Jaylon Smith may have had an impressive season last year, but the progression doesn’t stop there for the Cowboys linebacker. `

Smith joined The Ben and Skin Show on 105.3 The Fan Tuesday evening where he shared his current psychical state in comparison to last year.

“I feel amazing,” said Smith. Just the overall comfort of everything I had to go through, it was a tremendous first year and it’s going to be a great one this year.”

Smith went on to admit feeling “substantially better” than he did last year.

“It showed on the field week by week— my growth, my comfort and just being able to play the position again,” said Smith. “I’m prepared and I’m ready to tackle it more this year.”

The Cowboys lost Anthony Hitchens in the free agency and Smith could potentially be used to fill that void, but Smith has made it quite clear that he expects to remain at middle linebacker alongside Sean Lee.

“Honestly, I’m not a general manager or anything like that,” said Smith. “I don’t know anything about playing the SAM and things like that but I know last year I played MIKE linebacker and I grew each week and I’m ready to tackle it more.”

When asked about his strength as a player Smith said that he is a like a sponge in that he soaks everything in with the ability to quickly learn from his mistakes. He describes himself as very competitive with a high IQ that shows on the field.

It will be interesting to see how the Cowboys utilize Smith this season. Whether at middle linebacker or the strongside, Smith’s confidence in his ability to shine is just what this defense needs.

“Obviously I can do a lot, so being able to use me as a [pass] rusher as well, I mean, I’m going to do what the coaches tell me to do, and I’m going to achieve greatness.”