The Notre Dame Fighting Irish were plagued by injuries all season long and that was the case during the team's 44-28 loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes. Star linebacker Jaylon Smith left the game in the first quarter with a knee injury and did not return. After the game, head coach Brian Kelly said the knee injury was "significant."
It's unclear exactly what the injury to Smith is, although the "significant" portion does not bode well. Smith was injured when his foot caught in the turf. He went to the ground grabbing his knee.
It's a tough blow for Smith, who would have been a first round pick had he entered the NFL. Only a junior, Smith could have gone in the top 10, or even higher.
While the injury might not affect Smith's likely plan to turn pro, it would likely affect his draft stock. How far he falls in the draft is dependent on how severe his injury is.
Smith had a monster year for Notre Dame, racking up 114 tackles, nine of which were for a loss. He also added two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.
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