By SCHUYLER DIXON
AP Sports Writer
IRVING, Texas (AP) - The Dallas Cowboys have taken Notre Dame linebacker Jaylon Smith with the 34th overall pick in the second round of the NFL draft.
Smith isn't expected to play in 2016 after tearing ligaments in his left knee in his final college game against Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl. He skipped his final season of eligibility despite the injury.
The Cowboys went defense with their first pick Friday night after staying away from their biggest needs with the fourth overall pick on opening night and getting Ohio State running back Ezekiel Elliott.
Dallas can afford to give Smith a year to heal with middle linebacker Rolando McClain returning for a second season and oft-injured Sean Lee coming off his first Pro Bowl season in 2015.
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