Tyron Smith is not ready to bid farewell to his time with the Dallas Cowboys just yet. As the longest-tenured player on the team, Smith is approaching free agency this spring with a desire to continue donning the Cowboys’ colors in 2024.
Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News reports that Smith is actively seeking a new deal to extend his stay with the franchise.
Smith’s significance to the Cowboys is undeniable, having been a cornerstone of the team’s offensive line since they selected him as the ninth overall pick from USC in 2011. Despite his stellar performance, Smith has been plagued by injuries in recent years, missing a significant number of games.
Over the past three seasons alone, he has been absent for 23 games due to various injuries, including knee, back, and neck issues. The 2022 campaign saw him sidelined for all but four games after a hamstring tear during training camp, marking a departure from his ability to complete full seasons, last achieved in 2015.
Adding to the uncertainty surrounding Smith’s future with the Cowboys is the emergence of Tyler Smith, whom the team drafted in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Tyler has swiftly integrated into the offensive line, starting nearly every game over the past two seasons. The potential transition of Tyler to the left tackle position upon the expiration of Tyron’s contract suggests the team is preparing for life beyond its veteran lineman.
At 33 years old, Tyron Smith is cognizant of his injury history but remains committed to contributing to the Cowboys’ success. Having signed an eight-year extension worth nearly $100 million in 2016, Smith’s future with the team hinges on ongoing negotiations for a new contract.
The extent of progress in discussions between Smith’s camp and the Cowboys remains undisclosed, leaving uncertainty surrounding his tenure with the team.
Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy acknowledges Smith’s resilience and contributions, particularly during the most recent season. McCarthy expressed satisfaction with Smith’s performance, highlighting it as the veteran’s best season since 2020.
Smith’s ability to forego offseason surgeries presents a positive outlook for his future with the team. However, whether this translates into a renewed contract remains to be determined as negotiations progress.
