Report: Notre Dame LB Jaylon Smith to have reconstructive knee surgery

Jaylon Smith, who earned the Butkus Award this season as college football’s top linebacker, has been considered a top prospect in the 2016 NFL draft.

Notre Dame linebacker Jaylon Smith is set to undergo reconstructive surgery on his left knee Thursday, reports Chris Mortensen of ESPN.

The junior linebacker sustained the damage to his knee against Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl. Buckeyes tackle Taylor Decker shoved Smith, causing him to fall awkwardly and suffer what was referred to as a “significant” knee injury.

Smith reportedly has a $5 million insurance policy.

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Smith, who earned the Butkus Award this season as college football’s top linebacker, has been considered a top prospect in the 2016 NFL draft. The surgery could have a negative effect on his draft status.

- Xandria James