When the Dallas Cowboys shocked the world and selected linebacker Jaylon Smith early in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft, most could not picture a day where he would be going through drills without a brace on his injured knee.

Well, as has been previously reported, that day is now.

New footage has emerged of Jaylon Smith moving laterally without the brace, posted to Youtube by “Cowboys Fan Club.” And to say he looks smooth doing so would be an understatement.

The 50 second video clip above shows Jaylon Smith looking rather explosive laterally, something we feared he may never be able to do again. When at his best Smith was able to utilize his athleticism and range, and if he can get those attributes all the way back the Cowboys linebacker group will be in very good shape.

Combining him with the athletic Leighton Vander Esch and consistent Sean Lee would be a solid trio of linebackers in 2018. Of course, there is a lot of time between now and the opening game against the Carolina Panthers, however, but it’s okay to be excited about his progress.

Let’s hope Jaylon Smith continues to progress as the offseason moves along and we inch closer to the 2018 season.