Cowboys' deal with Jaylon Smith underscores Ezekiel Elliott problem

The Dallas Cowboys made news on Tuesday by signing stud young linebacker Jaylon Smith to a five-year, $64 million extension. Despite having started a total of 22 games since being selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft, Smith’s deal comes in at a major value for Dallas. The low down: Smith might be a top-five paid inside linebacker, but he could have gotten a whole lot more. Less than $13 million annually for one of the best young defenders in the game is an absolute steal. Just look at what other inside linebackers are getting paid on a per-year basis. Bobby Wagner: $18 million C.J. Mosley: $17 million Deion Jones: $14.25 million Kwon Alexander: $13.5 million The sample size: Dallas did take on considerable risk in handing Smith $35.5 million in total guarantees. Remember, Smith suffered a serious leg injury during his final season at Notre Dame. This cost him his entire rookie year. Despite this, Smith has morphed into a dominant off-ball linebacker. Last season saw the former Golden Domer reco

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