Jaylon Smith leaves unusual parting statement for Dallas Cowboys

Jaylon Smith was surprisingly released on Tuesday, but the now former Dallas Cowboys linebacker was far from bitter on his way out.

According to Michael Gelkhen who covers the Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News, Smith gave defensive coordinator Dan Quinn a statement to read to the defense.

“It just shows you the character and type of person that he is,” linebacker Leighton Vander Esch said. “He told us we have something special going on here, and he wants us to go get it all.”

Dallas Cowboys coach comments on Jaylon Smith release

Following the surprise release of Pro Bowl linebacker Jaylon Smith, Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy addressed reporters to explain the decision. McCarthy said “multiple factors” went into the decision to cut Smith but refused to get into the specifics.

“We just felt like this was the best time to make this decision,” said McCarthy, via The Athletic’s Jon Machota. “This was a big picture roster move.”

The move by Dallas was surprising given how successful the Cowboys have been through the first four weeks of the season. Smith’s role in the defense has been reduced this season, but he has played over 75 percent of snaps for the Cowboys in two of the first four games. In Week 2, Smith contributed nine tackles.

Despite his shrinking role with the team, he was a valued part of the defensive chemistry over past season. Jaylon Smith was a captain at linebacker and coach Mike McCarthy reiterated his respect.

“He played a lot of good football for us,” said McCarthy, via Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News. “In my time with him, he totally bought into the new direction of the program, everything we’ve done. The guy practices every single day, plays his ass off. I have nothing but respect for him.”

While the specifics of his release remain unclear, it is certain the immediate impact of linebacker Micah Parsons made things easier to swallow. The dynamic rookie has shown value across the field in the opening weeks and appeared ready to take more snaps away from Smith.

It’s clear Jaylon Smith left an impact in the locker room and with the fan base during his time in Dallas.