When it comes to the offensive line with Dallas, the more things change, the more they remain the same. In the way back days of 2022, the Cowboys found themselves in a predicament. Their franchise left tackle was showing signs of age, the starting right tackle was set to be a restricted free agent at the conclusion of the year and their starting left guard spot was completely up for grabs.
They needed to start thinking about the future at tackle since both starters could be playing their last season in Dallas but they had immediate needs at guard that needed to be addressed.
The offensive line had long been the identity and backbone of the Cowboys’ offense and bad things could ensue if they failed to address the situation promptly and properly.
The solution: two birds with one stone.
Dallas selected Tulsa OT Tyler Smith with their first pick in the 2022 draft. Smith was a highly talented mauler who was raw but possessed a ceiling as high as any prospect in the draft. With the right coaching and a little time, Smith could be the next great Cowboys left tackle.
Yet, Tyron Smith (the LT at the time) wasn’t ready to give up the throne, and the immediate need was at left guard (previous starter Connor Williams left in free agency). So Tyler Smith started at guard and only made his move outside after Tyron Smith fell to a nasty hamstring injury.
The rookie would go on to bounce between the two portside positions throughout the season, helping to solidify the Cowboys offensive line and setting the stage for the next infusion of talent in 2023.
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