The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for the season with a notable challenge as left guard Tyler Smith will be unavailable for a minimum of four weeks following surgery on a torn ligament in his left thumb.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer stated that Smith has been managing this injury during training camp and will be placed on injured reserve with the potential for recovery extending to six weeks.
Smith, who was selected 24th overall in the 2022 draft and has earned three Pro Bowl selections, has started 63 regular-season games. Recognized as a second-team All-Pro in 2023, he decided to undergo surgery after his performance was compromised despite efforts to play through the injury. Schottenheimer remarked on Smith's struggle to perform at a high level, noting the long season ahead.
In 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 had previously shown confidence in Bass by retaining him with a second-round restricted free agent tender.
Additionally, the team has added tight end James Mitchell to their practice squad, replacing veteran tight end Mitch Van Vooren, who was waived after re-signing with the Cowboys. As the Cowboys gear up for their opening game against the New York Giants on September 13, 2026, they will need to adjust to these changes effectively.
