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Former Notre Dame linebacker Jaylon Smith is perhaps the biggest question mark in this year’s NFL draft: Heading into his final college game, he was viewed as a potential first overall pick. But he suffered a knee injury in the Fiesta Bowl so severe that some were left wondering whether he could ever play again.

Smith acknowledged on NFL Network that the nerve damage he suffered may make his recovery longer than a typical torn knee ligament. But he said he’s been told his nerve damage will heal eventually, and when that happens he’ll play at a high level again.

“Nerves heal on their own,” Smith said. “From everything my doctor has said, I’ll be 100 percent, it’s just a matter of when.”

Smith was walking without a limp at Notre Dame’s Pro Day and showed impressive upper-body strength, putting up 23 repetitions in the 225-pound bench press.

“I’m feeling normal again,” Smith said. “The knee is doing great. The nerve is just a matter of everything coming back. But the rehab is going great. I’m squatting over 400 pounds, I’m leg pressing over 600 pounds. It’s just a matter of time. I’ll be fine.”

If Smith truly returns to 100 percent, he’ll be better than just fine. He has the talent to be great.