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Cowboys LG Tyler Smith to have thumb surgery, miss 4-6 weeks
T.J. Bass will start at left guard as Smith undergoes surgery and is expected to miss at least the first four games.
Dallas Cowboys starting left guard Tyler Smith will undergo thumb surgery on Tuesday and miss at least the first four games of the 2026 season, head coach Brian Schottenheimer announced Monday.
Smith had been bothered by the thumb injury for some time and was attempting to avoid surgery before deciding the procedure was necessary. He previously dealt with the issue during the season, dressing but not playing against the Jets.
T.J. Bass will replace Smith at left guard for the primetime season opener against the New York Giants on Sunday Night Football. Bass enters the lineup to protect quarterback Dak Prescott.
The 2022 first-round pick has earned three consecutive Pro Bowl selections and NFL All-Pro honors in 2023, making his absence a significant loss for the Cowboys' offensive line. Losing Smith deprives Dallas of an elite interior lineman.
At just 25 years old and signed to a 4-year, $96 million contract, Smith remains a cornerstone for the organization. Executives have lauded his rare combination of size, athleticism, and strength as essential for Dallas's future.