Cowboys guard Tyler Smith undergoes thumb surgery, return timeline uncertain
21 sourcesUpdated Sep 8, 2026
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Dallas Cowboys left guard Tyler Smith will undergo surgery Tuesday for ligament damage in his left thumb and is expected to miss four to six weeks. The three-time Pro Bowler will be placed on injured reserve, making him ineligible to return until at least Week 5. T.J. Bass, who has 10 career starts, will replace Smith in the lineup as Dallas begins the season against the New York Giants. A Week 5 return against Tampa Bay is possible, but the short-week schedule could make an October 18 game at Green Bay a more realistic target. Smith’s absence adds to concerns surrounding a Cowboys offensive line already facing competition at right tackle.
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“Tyler Smith out at least four weeks”Right
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IR with the return designation feels like the right move here. No point risking a longer setback by trying to push through it early in the season.
Grip strength on a guard is no joke, that's basically your whole job description. Hope they're being smart about the recovery timeline and not rushing him back.
Tough break for the O-line, Smith was playing really solid ball before this. Bass needs to hold the fort until week 5 at least.
