Cowboys Tyler Smith needs thumb surgery, out 4-6 weeks

Dallas Cowboys left guard Tyler Smith will undergo surgery for a left thumb injury and is expected to miss at least the first four to six weeks of the season, head coach Brian Schottenheimer announced Monday. Smith will be placed on injured reserve, ruling him out for the team's season opener against the New York Giants on Sunday night, September 13, 2026. The surgery, scheduled for Tuesday, September 8, 2026, is intended to repair a torn ligament in Smith's thumb. The injury had been bothering the three-time Pro Bowler throughout training camp, and the decision was made to address it to ensure his long-term health and performance. "Grip strength and things like that are really important" for offensive linemen, Schottenheimer explained, adding that the team believes Smith is a quick healer. Smith, a first-round draft pick in 2022, has been a cornerstone of the Cowboys' offensive line, earning Pro Bowl selections in each of his three seasons and a second-team All-Pro nod in 2023. He has started 63 regular-season games for Dallas. To fill the void left by Smith, the Cowboys will turn to T.J. Bass, a fourth-year player with 10 career starts.