Dallas Cowboys coach comments on release of Jaylon Smith

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.

Dallas Cowboys salary cap conundrum

Linebacker Jaylon Smith was released from the team, despite the Cowboys still owing him $7.2 million in cash on his contract this year.

The news comes as a shock due to the amount of money still owed to Smith on his contract. Smith’s contract still has five years and $50.75 million left on his deal. By releasing Smith, the Cowboys gain $16.6 million in dead cap spending.

In the current 2021 season, this amount is $9.8 million, $7.2 million of which is cash. In 2022, the dead cap hit will be $6.8 million.

The move will save the Cowboys nothing this season, but it does free up about $5 million in cap space for the 2022 season.

As Smith was entering his fifth year in the NFL, he is eligible to sign with another team immediately and does not need to go through the waiver wire.