What It Means:

The former 7th overall draft pick in 2011 is reportedly clean and sober as he waits to be officially reinstated following a 4-year absence due to personal and legal issues. Prior to his absence, Smith was on track to be a tremendous impact player, recording 47.5 sacks in his 59 games played, including 19.5 in his Sophomore season in 2012. The 30-year-old will join a Cowboys' defense rated 10th against the rush and 11th against the pass according to Pro Football Focus.

During his Pro Bowl season in 2012, Smith was Pro Football Focus' highest-graded tackler at his position with a grade of 90.2. In his last season before his absence, Smith received a rush defense grade of 77.6 and a pass-rush grade of 63.9, generating 36 pressures that resulted in 4 sacks, 5 quarterback hits, and 27 hurries.