We continue the ‘Reasons To Be Positive’ series, where we look to find reasons for optimism ahead of the 2025 season. This installment looks at Tyler Smith.
2024 Season stats:
Games- 17
Snaps- 1,052
Passing Blocks- 682
Pressures Allowed- 22
Sacks Allowed- 2
Penalties- 9
2025 Projected stats:
Pressures Allowed- 2
Sacks Allowed- 2
Tyler Smith stands out as a beacon of promise and stability for the Dallas Cowboys and the offense, which seems crazy to say as fans felt frustrated when his name was called in the first round of the draft. With the departures of stalwarts Tyron Smith and Zack Martin, Smith’s emergence as a leader and his consistent performance provide Cowboys fans with a level of reprieve for the offensive line.
In 2024, Smith solidified his reputation as a top-tier left guard and was a bright spot on a struggling offensive line. According to Pro Football Focus(PFF), he achieved an overall grade of 75.0, ranking 20th among 136 guards. His pass-blocking grade registered at 76.0 (14th), while his run-blocking grade was 73.8 (21st). These metrics underscore his balanced proficiency in both protecting the Dak Prescott and facilitating the run game.
#Cowboys Tyler Guyton talking about the o-line room with the addition of Tyler Booker and the absence of Zack Martin.
“He’s [Tyler Smith] the leader of our room. So we follow after him and we work as hard as he does and he’s a hard working mother ****er.”
— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) May 30, 2025
Smith’s durability is equally commendable. He participated in 1,052 snaps during the season and played in all 17 games, demonstrating his reliability and endurance on the field. In a year where so many offensive lineman struggled with health, Smith remained a constant and proved he could be relied upon.
With the retirements of Tyron Smith and Zack Martin, the Cowboys’ offensive line has entered a major transitional phase, the first time in quite a while. Tyler Smith has embraced this change, stepping up as a leader. Both Tyron Smith and Zack Martin, as well as the current offensive line players, have publicly endorsed him as the next great lineman for the Cowboys, highlighting his potential to carry forward their legacy. Smith himself has acknowledged the increased responsibility, expressing his commitment to guiding the younger players and maintaining the high standards set by his predecessors.
Recognizing his value, the Cowboys exercised the fifth-year option on Smith’s rookie contract, ensuring his presence through the 2026 season. This move provides the team with contractual stability and opens the door for potential long-term extension. Discussions around a lucrative extension are already underway, with reports suggesting that Smith could be in line for a record-breaking contract for an interior lineman.
Smith’s performance has not gone unnoticed by fans and players around the league. He earned his second consecutive Pro Bowl selection in 2024, becoming one of the few guards to achieve this feat before turning 24. Additionally, he’s been named a top candidate for the NFL’s newly introduced “Protector of the Year” award, which honors the league’s best offensive lineman. And he’s even bagged an All-Pro honor in 2023, the guy just plays at a high level.
Outlook for 2025
As the Cowboys hope for success in the 2025 season, Tyler Smith’s role will be one of the most pivotal for this team. His consistent performance, leadership, and contractual stability make him an indispensable asset. Fans can look forward to Smith anchoring the offensive line going forward, ensuring protection for Prescott and creating opportunities for the running game and this newly-assembled running back committee.
Tyler Guyton in year two is going to be better.
Cooper Beebe in year two could be Pro Bowlish.
Tyler Smith is one of the best guards in the league.
And Terence Steele should be close to pre-injury form.
Now, add the best collegiate guard in the 2025 draft class. pic.twitter.com/4uSosrKYjN— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) April 25, 2025
Mike Poland
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