The Las Vegas Raiders have adding more depth to their defense and linebacker room.
One of new interim general manager Champ Kelley's first moves is bringing in and signing a veteran linebacker with experience in Jaylon Smith.
Smith was originally drafted in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He was selected 34th overall from the University of Notre Dame and spent four notable seasons with the Cowboys.
In his career, Smith has 368 solo tackles, 247 assists, 11.0 sacks, six fumble recoveries and two interceptions.
Last season, Smith played 13 games with the New York Giants. He finished the season with 88 total tackles, 46 of them being solo and one sack.
Smith was once considered one of the best linebackers in the NFL. His best season in his career was with the Dallas Cowboys in 2019. Smith played a total of 16 games in which he finished with 142 total tackles, with 83 of them being solo. Smith also had 2.5 sacks, and one interception. Those stats in 2019 led him to being selected to play in the 2020 NFL Pro Bowl and represent the Dallas Cowboys and the NFC.
During the Summer, Smith had a visit with the Raiders but ended up signing with the New Orleans Saints. He did not make the Saints official 53-man roster and ended up being on the Saints practice squad.
The Raiders linebacker unit is currently banged up with multiple injuries. Starting linebacker Divine Deablo missed last week's game against the Lions due to an ankle injury he suffered in week 7 against the Bears. Deablo also missed Wednesday's practice along with Robert Spillane due to a hand injury and Luke Masterson with a concussion.
Be on the lookout for newly signed linebacker Smith as he debuts this Sunday in the Silver and Black and looks to make an impact in the Raiders linebacker room and the Raiders defense overall.
The Silver and Black will return to Allegiant Stadium to take on the New York Giants on Sunday, Nov. 5, at 4:25 p.m. EST/1:25 p.m. PST.
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