Tyler Smith’s shift from left guard to left tackle should improve Dallas’ pass protection and lower Dak Prescott’s sack risk; bettors may favor the Cowboys’ moneyline or cover short-term spreads and consider backing lower team sack props and reduced QB pressure/turnover props in the next two games.
Tyler Smith Slides to Left Tackle as Cowboys Search for Stability
Versatility becomes a strategic move down the stretch
Tyler Smith moved from left guard to left tackle Sunday, a decision the coaching staff has elected to maintain for the remainder of the season’s closing games. The 2022 first-round pick handled the position well in his rookie year and again showed a high level of play against the Los Angeles Chargers, prompting coaches to prioritize immediate win probability over positional continuity.
Coaching rationale and short-term plan
Coaches said the switch was made because it gives the team the best chance to win the upcoming games. The plan is to run it for the next two games and reassess after the season ends. Smith himself called the shift situational, noting he’ll do what’s best for the team and that long-term decisions will be part of future conversations.
Performance and Financial Stakes
Elite guard turned potential long-term tackle
Smith signed a four-year, $96 million extension in September, making him the highest-paid interior lineman in NFL history. That salary, however, ranks behind several dedicated left tackles, so a permanent move to tackle could prompt contract renegotiation. Smith’s game grade against the Chargers was among his top performances this season, reinforcing the argument that he can handle tackle responsibilities at a high level.
Impact on roster construction and offseason choices
The Cowboys hoped to field a settled five-man line—Guyton at left tackle, Smith at left guard, Cooper Beebe at center, Tyler Booker at right guard and Terence Steele at right tackle—but injuries have disrupted that plan. If the staff prefers Smith at left tackle long term, the team could shift Guyton to right tackle (where he has college experience) or pursue veteran options at guard or tackle in free agency. That opens the possibility of using draft capital differently in the offseason.
Injury and Depth Concerns
Guyton’s absence and swing-tackle plans
Second-year tackle Tyler Guyton has missed several games with an ankle injury and isn’t expected to play Thursday. That uncertainty contributed to the decision to move Smith outside. If Guyton returns for the season finale, he would likely serve as swing tackle.
Continuity issues along the line
Dallas has struggled to keep its preferred five offensive linemen on the field. Terence Steele is the only tackle to play every game this season; Guyton, Smith, Cooper Beebe and Tyler Booker have missed multiple contests. That lack of continuity has hindered overall tackle play, and the staff is evaluating whether internal moves or external roster additions will best address the issue.
What This Means for the Cowboys’ Offense
Immediate benefits and evaluation timeline
The switch improved pass protection in the most recent game and helped keep Dak Prescott cleaner against a strong pass rush. Coaches and evaluators will study the results through the end of the season and throughout the offseason to determine whether Smith’s move to left tackle should be temporary or permanent.
Locker-room confidence
Quarterback Dak Prescott expressed strong confidence in Smith’s ability to play multiple spots, recalling Smith’s rookie-year success at left tackle and praising his football IQ and work ethic. That endorsement underscores both Smith’s value to the team and the rationale for giving him a larger role when needed.
Looking Ahead
Decisions to be made this offseason
The Cowboys face choices about whether to invest in tackle via the draft, reallocate existing pieces, or pursue free-agent help. Smith’s versatility offers internal flexibility, but the club must balance that against long-term cap and roster priorities while addressing defensive holes and other needs.
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"Ultimately, I’m gonna do what’s best for the team," Smith said of the end-of-season move to left tackle.
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