The New York Jets have reached an agreement with former Dallas Cowboys left tackle Tyron Smith, a source familiar with the deal informed The Associated Press.
The Friday night move marks the final piece in the Jets’ extensive offensive line overhaul, a focal point of the offseason under the direction of general manager Joe Douglas.
The individual, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity pending an official team announcement, disclosed that NFL Network was the first to report the deal. According to ESPN, it is a one-year contract with potential earnings of up to $20 million, inclusive of performance incentives.
Earlier on Friday, the Jets also secured the return of defensive lineman Solomon Thomas, another source familiar with the agreement revealed to the AP.
Smith, 33, a two-time All-Pro and eight-time Pro Bowl honoree, brings stability to a line that grappled with inconsistency and productivity issues last season.
Tasked with safeguarding quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ blind side, Smith joins forces with returning center Joe Tippmann, right guard Alijah Vera-Tucker, recently acquired left guard John Simpson, and right tackle Morgan Moses, obtained this week from the Baltimore Ravens.
Despite battling injuries that limited him to 17 games over the previous three seasons, Smith showcased his prowess by starting 13 games last season, reaffirming his status as a dominant force. The USC alum has spent his entire 13-year NFL career with the Cowboys after being selected ninth overall in the 2011 draft.
Thomas, 28, returns for his third season with the Jets, having emerged as a vital component of the defensive line rotation and a respected leader both on and off the field.
The source, speaking to the AP on condition of anonymity, confirmed Thomas’ agreement to return to New York, as initially reported by SNY.
Notching a career-high five sacks last season while appearing in every game, Thomas continues to fortify a Jets defensive line headlined by Quinnen Williams, John Franklin-Myers, Jermaine Johnson, Micheal Clemons, Will McDonald, along with recent acquisitions Jason Kilar and Leki Fotu.
Selected third overall by the San Francisco 49ers in the 2017 NFL draft, Thomas spent his first four seasons with the team before joining the Raiders for the 2021 campaign. His return to the Jets last offseason and subsequent re-signing last year underscore his valued presence on the squad.
With 15 career sacks, 45 quarterback hits, and a demonstrated commitment to community engagement through his nonprofit organization The Defensive Line, Thomas brings both on-field prowess and off-field leadership to the Jets.
