Jaylon Smith and Myles Jack are the two best linebackers in the 2016 draft, but their injury concerns could result in huge drops.
As if the 2016 NFL draft wasn’t interesting enough as it is thanks to the blockbuster trade between the Los Angeles Rams and Tennessee Titans, now another bit of drama seems to be unfolding in regards to two of its most talented players. Just a few months ago there was no doubt that linebackers Smith and Jack were not only the two best at their position, but two of the top five players in the entire class.
However, things have gotten more complicated for both of them. A recent medical checkup by NFL teams, the last before the draft has resulted in potentially huge impacts to their stocks.
Teams are still reviewing info on #ND LB Jaylon Smith (knee) after rechecks. But I'm told his report wasn't much different from the Combine.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 15, 2016
#UCLA LB Myles Jack's medical recheck is over. "Differing opinions." Some teams thought the healing wasn't fast enough. Others are OK it.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 15, 2016
Smith tore the ACL and LCL in his right knee during the final game of his collegiate career, an injury that may have caused extensive nerve damage. In other words there is a risk that it might never recover anywhere near to what it was prior to the incident. Word is Smith will likely sit out the 2016 season to have ample recovery time and hopefully be ready to go for 2017.
Meanwhile, Jack made it through just three games of the 2015 season for UCLA before he tore the meniscus in his knee. His recovery was expected to be between 4-6 months. What has several teams concerned is the fact he didn’t run the 40-yard dash at the scouting combine, an indication his recovery may not be progressing as quickly as some would hope. He suffered the injury in late September of last year, which means its been more than six months since it was repaired. Not a good sign.
What is becoming clear now is that teams in the NFL draft are faced with a dilemma. If they return to their original forms, there is no doubt Jaylon Smith and Myles Jack will be stars at the pro level. However, the foggy situation surrounding those knees makes where they end up going on the board a complete unknown. No doubt their potential drops could be the storylines to follow.