Irish in the NFL: Jaylon Smith Headed to Pro Bowl

Smith had his best year as a pro as he racked up a team-high 142 tackles as well as nine pass break ups, 2.5 sacks and a pair of forced fumbles.

Perhaps its not the way he drew it up but former Notre Dame linebacker Jaylon Smith is headed to his first Pro Bowl.

Because of an injury to Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly, Smith will represent the Dallas Cowboys on January 26 in Orlando.

It’s been a long time coming for Smith, who suffered the infamous knee injury in the 2016 Fiesta Bowl that prevented him from being a likely top-10 draft pick.

Smith had his best year as a pro as he racked up a team-high 142 tackles as well as nine pass break ups, 2.5 sacks and a pair of forced fumbles.  He also recorded his first career interception by picking off a Case Keenum pass in Week 17 against Washington.

Smith is one of now six Dallas Cowboys in the Pro Bowl.  He and wide receiver Amari Cooper who was announced to replace Mike Evans today, joins running back Ezekiel Elliott and offensive linemen Tyron Smith, Travis Frederick and Notre Dame product, Zack Martin.