The Dallas Cowboys took a major gamble when they drafted Notre Dame linebacker Jaylon Smith in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Just four months prior, Smith had suffered a possible career-ending knee injury. Three years later and Pro Football Focus has named him Breakout Player of the Year.
Prior to his injury, Smith was considered a possible top-five selection in the upcoming NFL draft. But he tore the ACL and LCL in his left knee during the first quarter of the Fiesta Bowl, causing significant nerve damage.
Rehabilitation from the injury required Smith to miss his entire rookie season in Dallas.