Cowboys' Aldon Smith Officially Reinstated to NFL and His Return Date Has Been Revealed
By Adam Weinrib
The Dallas Cowboys rolled the dice on one of the league's troubled souls this offseason, inking a contract with defensive end Aldon Smith, who's been out of the NFL since the 2015 season.
Dallas signed him with the expectation that the NFL was finally ready to let him play, though, and alongside Randy Gregory, Smith formed a dynamic duo of pass rushers who would only contribute if the NFL's board determined it could be a reality.
Luckily for the 'Boys, the first additional shoe has dropped here, supplementing their potential Super Bowl expectations for 2020. Smith has been reinstated by the league, and will be able to return to the Cowboys' offseason program within the week.
Per source, Smith will eligible to participate with Cowboys May 26 https://t.co/h9YC1bmP2K
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) May 20, 2020
Of course, the reinstatement of Smith hardly abates the overall uncertainty about the 2020 campaign, with the NFL's timely start hardly a guarantee.
All caveats aside, the league is allowing the Cowboys access to a potential star pass rusher here after failing to bend on this exact issue for years as Smith's legal troubles mounted (sorry, Raiders).
Aldon Smith reinstated. YES. I have a good feeling about this. He will contribute. Wouldn't be shocked if he stars.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) May 20, 2020
Assuming full-contact drills begin this summer, expect Smith to make the most of his newfound freedom and perfect opportunity.