The Dallas Cowboys are facing a significant challenge as left guard Tyler Smith is set to miss at least four weeks following surgery on a torn ligament in his left thumb. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer announced that Smith, who has been dealing with this injury throughout training camp, will be placed on injured reserve designated to return.
The exact timeline for his recovery is not clear, but he could potentially return for the Week 5 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Smith, a three-time Pro Bowl selection and the 24th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, has started 63 regular-season games and was named a second-team All-Pro in 2023. His absence will require the Cowboys to rely on T.J. Bass, an undrafted free agent who has played in 48 games with 10 starts, including five last season.
Schottenheimer noted that the team valued Bass's presence as they navigate this setback.
In addition to the injury news, the Cowboys have made adjustments to their roster ahead of the season opener against the New York Giants on September 13, 2026. They have added tight end James Mitchell to the practice squad, previously with the Detroit Lions and Carolina Panthers, while waiving veteran tight end Mitch Van Vooren, who had recently re-signed with the team after the preseason.
