Jan. 02--Jaylon Smith pressed his lips together and tried on a smile Friday, a Band-Aid for his agony.
The consensus All-America linebacker was laboring back to the Notre Dame sideline from a tunnel at University of Phoenix Stadium, his left leg swallowed by a black air cast, his armpits swallowing the crutches he leaned on.
A "significant knee injury," as diagnosed by coach Brian Kelly, had landed Smith on the sideline during the Irish's 44-28 loss to Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl. An injury that could be significant in more ways than one.
Smith, who won the Butkus Award as the nation's best linebacker, was projected to be a top-10 pick in this year's NFL draft, should he opt to forgo his senior season. Smith said this week he would announce his decision a day or two after the bowl game. The deadline to declare for the draft is Jan. 15.
The severity of his injury could affect how far he falls, should he leave.
"He's the predator. He's the praying mantis," Notre Dame linebacker Jarrett Grace said of the team's leading tackler, who had one Friday to finish with 114. "It sucks. In that moment you're like, 'Darn it,' and probably said some other choice words."
Smith's last play of the season -- and probably his college career -- ended with eight minutes to go in the first quarter after he was shoved post-whistle by offensive lineman Taylor Decker. When Smith landed, his left leg bent like a bow as it met the grass.
Decker empathized with Smith after the game, saying the shove carried no malicious intent.
"My heart goes out to the guy," Decker said. "You never want to injure anybody. ... I hope he recovers well because he's going to be a hell of a player on the next level."
