Tyler Smith’s Return Could Give Cowboys Offense Another Major Boost

FRISCO - The Dallas Cowboys offense has already shown it can carry a heavy load.

It may be about to get even stronger.

MORE: Cowboys Try To Explain Failures By 1 Key Position Group

All-Pro left guard Tyler Smith returned to practice this week after missing the first four games of the season following thumb surgery, giving Dallas a legitimate chance to add one of its best offensive linemen back into the lineup as soon as Thursday night against Tampa Bay.

Smith’s 21-day practice window was officially opened Monday, and he participated on a limited basis.

Whether he’s ready for the Buccaneers remains uncertain, but simply having him back on the field is an important development for a Cowboys offense that has had to reshuffle its front early in the season. 

The timing could be ideal.

Dallas is coming off a 34-30 comeback win over Houston in which Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb carried the offense late, while Javonte Williams scored three rushing touchdowns.

The Cowboys have proven they can move the football, but adding Smith would give them another proven piece in both pass protection and the running game. 

Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones made the point clearly this week, noting that Smith’s presence can create valuable extra time for the offense to develop plays downfield.

“We’re talking about a guy who’s an All-Pro,” Jones said. 

That matters even more on a short week.

Dallas doesn’t need Smith to return and immediately play every snap if he isn’t ready.

T.J. Bass has handled the job in his absence, and the Cowboys have every reason to be cautious with a player expected to be a major part of their offensive line for the long haul.

But if Smith is cleared and can handle a meaningful workload, the impact could be immediate.

Better interior protection gives Prescott more time. A stronger left side helps the running game.

And with Lamb and George Pickens stressing defenses downfield, even a small improvement in protection can create bigger opportunities.

MORE: Cowboys' Brian Schottenheimer Reveals 'Painful' Truths On Defense

The Cowboys already have plenty of offensive firepower.

Getting Tyler Smith back could make that group even harder to deal with.