The Dallas Cowboys are facing a significant challenge ahead of the new season as left guard Tyler Smith will miss at least four weeks following surgery on a torn ligament in his left thumb. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed that Smith, who has been dealing with this injury throughout training camp, will be placed on injured reserve designated to return.
The timeline for his recovery could extend to six weeks.
Smith, a three-time Pro Bowl selection and the 24th overall pick in the 2022 draft, has started 63 regular-season games and was recognized as a second-team All-Pro in 2023. Despite attempts to play through the injury with protective measures, he ultimately opted for surgery when his performance was affected. Schottenheimer noted, "It's something that's he's been dealing with.
It's just felt like he couldn't do at a high level. It's a long season."
In Smith's absence, T.J. Bass, a 27-year-old undrafted free agent with 48 game appearances and 10 starts, will step in as the starting left guard. The Cowboys had previously retained Bass with a second-round restricted free agent tender, indicating their confidence in his abilities.
