Things just reportedly took a monumental turn for the positive when it comes to Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaylon Smith.

The rookie has been battling to return to football after an injury suffered in January that tore both his ACL and MCL, leaving nerve damage behind. Originally predicted by many to not see the field until 2017, if then, it's being reported by former Cowboys VP of Player Personnel Gil Brandt that the nerve in Smith's knee has already begun to regenerate.

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Brandt states owner Jerry Jones advised him Smith is indeed making progress, and the first-year LB himself confirmed it as true.

On Monday, EVP Stephen Jones stated the team planned to activate Smith from the NFI with the NFL's deadline of Tuesday only 24 hours away. Should the team not do so, Smith would not be able to play for the Cowboys in 2016.

Making the move to activate the 34th overall pick would leave the door open for a potential return to football this season for the rookie, and add some additional firepower to a Cowboys LB corps that needs it.

It would also instantly make the Cowboys defense nearly as potent as its offense as they ready for what could be a Super Bowl run this year.

The likelihood of Smith seeing the field in 2016 remains slim to none, though.