The Dallas Cowboys made a surprising move on April 1 when they signed former All-Pro defensive end Aldon Smith. Once one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL, Smith has had his share of off the field issues which have led to him not seeing any game action since 2015.
Now, he awaits a decision on his possible reinstatement after meeting with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.
Since his release from the Raiders in 2018, Smith worked on himself and is appreciative of his chance to play in the NFL, which he explained a week after signing with the Cowboys to Jay Glazer of FOX Sports.
“It’s been a whole lot of soul searching. It’s been a journey filled with ups and downs,” Smith said. “And during the process, during the journey, there’s been some self-inflicting wounds. But in the process, I came out with a better understanding of who I am and what I want for my life. It gave me a greater appreciation for the game I’m blessed to play.”
From sleeping under a car, to joining the @dallascowboys.@AldonSmith tells @JayGlazer about his long journey back to the NFL: pic.twitter.com/osu8mV36h6
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) April 10, 2020
Smith also isn’t just looking to return to the field, he wants to use his experience to assist others.
“I believe that with the platform the NFL gives players and particularly me with the things that I’ve gone through and things I’ve learned, it would give me a chance to help out others.”
Now, the former first-round pick plays the waiting as the commissioner decides his fate.
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