The Dallas Cowboys are making necessary adjustments as left guard Tyler Smith will be out for a minimum of four weeks following surgery on a torn ligament in his left thumb. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed that Smith, who has been managing this injury during training camp, will be placed on injured reserve with the option to return.
His recovery could take up to six weeks.
Smith, a three-time Pro Bowl player and the 24th overall selection in the 2022 draft, has played in 63 regular-season games and earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2023. He had been attempting to play through the injury but decided on surgery when it began to impact his performance. Schottenheimer remarked that Smith had been struggling to perform at his usual level throughout this period.
In light of Smith's absence, T.J. Bass, a 27-year-old undrafted free agent with 48 game appearances and 10 starts, will take over as the starting left guard. The Cowboys previously signed Bass to a second-round restricted free agent tender, reflecting their trust in his capabilities.
Additionally, the team has added tight end James Mitchell to their practice squad, replacing veteran Mitch Van Vooren, who was waived after rejoining the team. As the Cowboys prepare for their first game against the New York Giants on September 13, 2026, these changes will be crucial for their season strategy.
