In 1978, Jackie Smith joined the Dallas Cowboys, leaving Cain the top tight end on the Cardinals' roster. However, Cain then suffered an Achilles tendon injury in training camp and missed the entirety of the 1978 season.
Jackie Smith joined the Dallas Cowboys in 1978, which made Cain the leading tight end for the Cardinals. Nevertheless, Cain suffered an Achilles tendon injury during training camp that prevented him from playing at all in the 1978 season.