Veteran NFL linebacker has been given a new opportunity by Tom Brady and the Las Vegas Raiders, according to a recent report.
Smith, 29, a former Pro Bowler, last played in the 2023 NFL season.
Now, he’s getting a chance to reignite his career after earning a spot on the Raiders’ roster following a weekend tryout, per ESPN.
Smith is most recognized for his stint with the Dallas Cowboys, who selected him in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He spent five seasons in Dallas and earned Pro Bowl honors in 2019, posting 142 tackles (six for loss), two forced fumbles, and 2.5 sacks that year.
Notably, Smith will reunite with defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, who coached him during his time with the Giants.
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The Raiders ended last season with a disappointing 4-13 record and have reportedly been relying on Tom Brady’s insights since he became a minority owner in October.
According to The Athletic, Brady has played a significant role in the team’s decision-making process.
Las Vegas made some bold moves this offseason, acquiring quarterback Geno Smith and hiring former Seahawks head coach and Super Bowl champion Pete Carroll.
They also secured star defensive end Maxx Crosby with a three-year extension worth $106.5 million.
Brady is somewhat acquainted with Smith’s playing style, having played against him twice—once as a Patriot and once as a Buccaneer. In those games, Smith recorded eight and four total tackles, respectively.
Defensively, the Raiders struggled last year, ranking 25th in points allowed per game at 25.5.