There were games where it felt like Daniels was flagging last season but then, since he's essentially carried the LB load alone since we got promoted, it isn't a huge surprise. Having an option that's ready to step straight into the first team there is something we desperately need.
Funnily enough, the best left back performance I saw from us last season came from Adam Smith filling in there. However, our right back resources are even scarcer so he can't be considered anything more than an emergency option.
As for Brad Smith... sometimes it just isn't meant to be. Unless he can be pushed forward to play a more attacking role for the next season and then be the second option when Daniels hangs up his boots I think he may struggle to even get a chance to try and show what he can do. Being realistic though, he's 24 and essentially hasn't played for two seasons so for the sake of his career he should move on if the Rico deal comes to fruition. I'm sure there are a number of Championship sides on the lookout for an attacking LB.