During a pre-draft news conference Monday at The Star in Frisco, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones shared some positive news regarding the health of last year's second round pick, Jaylon Smith.

Jones said Smith's nerves have regenerated in his left foot to the point he can now lift his toes.

Smith sustained nerve damage from a severe left knee injury he suffered in his final college game.

During a Thursday morning Facebook Live interview on the Cowboys' official Facebook page, executive vice president Stephen Jones said they've received more positive news since meeting with reporters on Monday.

"We're obviously so excited about the progress that Jaylon's making," Stephen Jones said. "We've actually had a report since the press conference and it's even more encouraging in terms of the progress that he's making. I really do think he has -- it's in God's hands in terms of how you heal medically, but -- a great opportunity to really start to have full regeneration as we close in on the season. Of course he's doing some incredible work out here already, with it not 100 percent. He's making huge jumps from each test, from each week in terms of the progress he's making.

"It's certainly encouraging where he's going. I think he's going to make a big difference for our football team this year before it's all said and done."

Smith, who missed his entire rookie season, has been wearing a brace on his left foot during offseason workouts to help with his drop foot condition. The Cowboys expect Smith to contribute this upcoming season even if he has to wear the brace while playing.

Smith was considered to be a top five pick before the injury, but the uncertainty about his playing future caused him to fall into the second round, where the Cowboys picked him 34th overall.