When the Dallas Cowboys drafted Tyler Smith 24th overall in 2022, they envisioned a versatile lineman who could anchor their offense for years to come. Three Pro Bowl selections later, that vision has become a reality—but the question of where he lines up best remains a hot topic in Frisco.
While the Cowboys have consistently stated that Smith's future is brightest at guard—co-owner Stephen Jones even compared his early development to Hall of Famer Larry Allen—the team is keeping its options open. After filling in at left tackle late last season, Smith made it clear he wanted clarity on his role moving forward. Following productive conversations with new head coach Brian Schottenheimer, the 25-year-old seems at peace with whatever comes next.
"We had great conversations about it," Smith said Thursday at the team's annual Reliant Home Run Derby. "I have an understanding of what it is, and that's the most I can ask for."
That confidence is well-earned. Since arriving from Tulsa, Smith has developed into one of the NFL's premier guards, earning a four-year, $96 million extension last offseason—the richest deal ever for a player at his position. But the Cowboys' offensive line puzzle isn't fully solved yet.
The team invested a first-round pick in left tackle Tyler Guyton in 2024, but injuries and inconsistency have limited him to just 21 starts. With Nate Thomas and rookie fourth-rounder Drew Shelton also in the mix, Dallas is hoping someone emerges as a reliable blindside protector. If not, the door remains open for Smith to shift outside once again.
For now, Smith isn't sweating the uncertainty. "I'm good where we're at," he said—a statement that should reassure Cowboys fans that whatever position he plays, their Pro Bowl lineman is ready to deliver.
