Cowboys add Preferred Walk-on Linebacker from Texas

Tuesday evening, the Cowboys added 6-4, 210-pound linebacker Zach Smith to the 2016 class as a preferred walk on. He announced his commitment via twitter:

#Committed #Blessed pic.twitter.com/laOWxTiGvn

— Zach Smith (@Zachgsmith) December 16, 2015

He posted this statement on his twitter:

“I would like to thank my family and friends for helping me make the biggest decision of my life. A lot of thought and prayer has gone into this decision and it has not been easy, I would also like to thank all the coaches who have spent their time recruiting me and believing in my ability to make their team better. With that being said I am committing to Oklahoma State University to continue my football career and fulfill my childhood dream of playing football at the division 1 level. So much blood sweat and tears have gone into this long process and I wouldn’t trade it for anything! #StillySquad16”

Smith will join the Cowboys as a preferred walk-on from Pleasanton, Texas. Preferred walk-on players are guaranteed a spot on the football roster, however the player does not receive a scholarship. Many preferred walk-on players join the program and later receive a scholarship if it becomes available or if it is earned.

Smith also has a twin brother, Cade Smith, who also holds a preferred walk-on offer from the Cowboys.

According to 247sports.com, Zach Smith chose the Cowboys over Air Force, Army, Houston, Utah State, and Texas A&M Kingsville.