As the Dallas Cowboys head into their rookie minicamp this weekend, they will have a special guest throwing passes: Donovan Smith, a former quarterback from the University of Houston. Although the odds of this opportunity turning into a spot on the Cowboys’ 90-man offseason roster are slim, it’s a significant moment for Smith, whose career has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks.

Originally a high school wide receiver, Smith switched to quarterback in his final year and caught the eye of Texas Tech. After transferring to Houston in 2023, he enjoyed his most successful season, throwing for 22 touchdowns in 12 games with a 64.5% completion rate. At that point, he appeared poised to become a potential pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

“Smith possesses an excellent set of physical attributes,” noted Damian Parsons of The Draft Network. “The year 2024 will be pivotal for Smith’s progress, possibly propelling him into the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.” “By enhancing his game and showcasing improved pocket awareness and decision-making, Smith could find himself drafted earlier than anticipated,” remarked Andrew Moore from NFL Draft Buzz.

Unfortunately, the towering 6-foot-5 quarterback faced challenges during his senior year. After undergoing shoulder surgery, his performance dropped significantly, resulting in just four touchdowns against eight interceptions and eventually being benched mid-season. While his physical capabilities may intrigue some scouts, Smith needs more game film and experience to demonstrate his potential for growth.

The question remains whether making up for lost time is feasible at this stage of his career. For now, Smith will be the quarterback at the Cowboys’ rookie minicamp, where he has a limited opportunity to impress the coaching staff. If he succeeds, it could mark the beginning of a remarkable comeback for someone once seen as a future NFL Draft prospect.