Tyron Smith isn’t prepared to part ways with the Dallas Cowboys just yet. As the team’s longest-serving player, Smith heads towards free agency this spring with a strong desire to continue representing the Cowboys in 2024.
According to Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News, Smith is actively pursuing a new deal to prolong his time with the franchise.
Smith’s importance to the Cowboys is undeniable; he’s been a key figure in the team’s offensive line since they drafted him ninth overall from USC in 2011. Despite his impressive performance, Smith has struggled with injuries in recent years, causing him to miss a significant number of games.
In the last three seasons alone, he has been sidelined for 23 games due to various injuries, including knee, back, and neck issues. In 2022, he only played four games after suffering a hamstring tear during training camp, a departure from his previous ability to complete full seasons, last achieved in 2015.
The emergence of Tyler Smith, whom the team drafted in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, adds uncertainty to Tyron Smith’s future with the Cowboys. Tyler has quickly become a key part of the offensive line, starting almost every game over the past two seasons. The potential transition of Tyler to the left tackle position after Tyron’s contract expires suggests that the team is preparing for a future without the veteran lineman. At 33, Tyron Smith is aware of his injury history but remains dedicated to helping the Cowboys succeed. Having signed an eight-year extension worth nearly $100 million in 2016, Smith’s continuation with the team depends on ongoing negotiations for a new contract.
The progress of discussions between Smith’s representatives and the Cowboys is currently undisclosed, leaving uncertainty about his future with the team.
Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy acknowledges Smith’s resilience and contributions, especially during the most recent season. McCarthy expressed satisfaction with Smith’s performance, considering it the veteran’s best season since 2020.
Smith’s decision to forgo offseason surgeries bodes well for his future with the team. However, whether this leads to a renewed contract remains to be seen as negotiations unfold.