Cowboys' Tyler Smith to Miss Week 1 Against Giants After Thumb Surgery

Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowl lineman Tyler Smith will miss at least the first four games of the season due to recovery from surgery to repair a ligament tear in his thumb. Smith had initially attempted to play through the injury before the decision was made to proceed with surgery and place him on injured reserve. Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer stated, "Unfortunately, when you’re an offensive lineman, grip strength and things like that are really important. We know he’s a quick healer, and we want to get it fixed and he’ll be back for too long." Schottenheimer also praised Smith's toughness, noting that the timing of the injury was uncertain but that the decision was made to prioritize his recovery for the long season ahead. Smith has been a Pro Bowler for the past three seasons and has missed five games in his four-year career due to various injuries, including ankle, foot, hamstring, and knee issues. He underwent surgery on his right knee in February. T.J. Bass is expected to replace Smith in the lineup for the game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium.