The Dallas Cowboys are set to face a notable hurdle as left guard Tyler Smith is expected to miss 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 throughout training camp, will be placed on injured reserve with the designation to return.
Recovery may take as long as six weeks.
Smith, who was selected 24th overall in the 2022 draft and is a three-time Pro Bowl player, has participated in 63 regular-season games and earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2023. Despite efforts to play through the injury while using protective gear, he ultimately chose surgery due to its impact on his performance.
Schottenheimer remarked on Smith’s ongoing struggle, noting the difficulty in maintaining a high level of play during the season.
In Smith's place, T.J. Bass, a 27-year-old undrafted free agent, will take over as the starting left guard. Bass has made 48 game appearances and has started in 10 of those. The Cowboys previously secured Bass with a second-round restricted free agent tender, reflecting their trust in his capabilities.
Additionally, the team has made a roster adjustment by adding tight end James Mitchell to the practice squad. Mitchell, who has played for the Detroit Lions and Carolina Panthers, takes the spot of veteran tight end Mitch Van Vooren, who was waived after rejoining the team.
