One of the biggest things you worry about with NFL rookies is if they will have the work ethic needed to succeed in the pros. Early indications show that Cowboys 1st-round pick Tyler Smith, projected to start at guard in 2022, won’t have any problem with effort.
Recently, Smith attended the fifth-annual OL Masterminds summit. This event, hosted by reputed offensive line coach Duke Manyweather, veteran OT Lane Johnson, and other former NFL offensive linemen, brings in young OL talent looking to work on technique and learn from some of the best ever to do it.
Cowboys center Tyler Biadasz was also noted in attendance at this year’s event.
Thankfully, Tyler Smith’s access to some of the league’s all-time greats isn’t limited to this event. He has them right at home with teammates Tyron Smith and Zack Martin, and the rookie is reportedly soaking up anything he can from his OL elders.
While Tyler is expected to start at left guard for Dallas in 2022, it’s assumed that he will eventually transition to left tackle once Tyron’s time is up. That could happen as soon as next year depending on the veteran’s health and performance this season, especially with the Cowboys able to clear $9.6 million in cap space if Tyron’s released.
A turn at LT could come even sooner depending on Dallas’ depth options this season. They could elect to make Tyler the immediate backup at LT if neither Josh Ball or Matt Waletzko are viable candidates.
At the very least, the Cowboys are hoping that Tyler Smith will upgrade the LG position in 2022 from what Connor Williams has provided the last four seasons. Dallas let Williams walk in free agency after shaky pass protection and numerous penalties left the team wanting more.
While Connor McGovern did get a brief stint as the starting LG in 2021 it wasn’t enough to keep Williams on the bench for more than a few games or to give McGovern any claim on the job now. This is Tyler Smith’s job to lose already and the rookie appears to be doing all the right things to make it a success.
So far, so good.
