FRISCO — The Cowboys have been adamant that Tyler Smith‘s best path is at guard. Co-owner Stephen Jones once said that Smith’s early development, featuring three Pro Bowls in his first four seasons, feels just like it did when they had Hall of Fame guard Larry Allen.
And yet, the Cowboys have kept the door open to using Smith at left tackle, just as they did at the end of last season.
Smith said at the end of last season he wanted to have a conversation with Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer and the staff about their plans for him heading into the off-season. Schottenheimer said those conversations went well. Smith echoed that on Thursday from the team’s annual Reliant Home Run Derby in Frisco.
“We had great conversations about it,” said Smith, who also played left tackle out of necessity in his rookie season. “I have an understanding of what it is and that’s the most I can ask for.”
So far, Smith has been everything the Cowboys could’ve asked for when they selected him 24th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Tulsa. He’s found a home at guard, where he’s developed into one of the league’s best. It’s been an impressive start to a career for a player who just recently celebrated his 25th birthday.
So, why would the Cowboys move Smith away from his best position? Just like his rookie season, it seems like it would come down to necessity. The Cowboys used a first round pick in 2024 on left tackle Tyler Guyton. He’s only started 21 games, however, due to injuries and inconsistent play. The Cowboys hope Guyton can take hold of the left tackle position. They also have Nate Thomas, who has played at tackle for them, as well as rookie fourth round pick Drew Shelton.
If the Cowboys can’t find a consistent option at left tackle then they might be forced to put Smith there, opening up a spot for T.J. Bass at left guard.
“Obviously, I’ve got the utmost faith that we’re going to go out there and do what we’re going to do,” Smith said. “Ultimately I’ll be in the position I need to be in. I’m good where we’re at.”