Tyler Smith Named to Top 25 NFL Players Under 25
Dallas Cowboys rising star Tyler Smith has officially earned a spot among the NFL’s elite young talents, being named to Pro Football Focus’s (PFF) list of the top 25 players under the age of 25. Ranked 22nd overall, Smith’s inclusion highlights his rapid development and growing impact on the field, just three seasons into his professional career.
Drafted 24th overall in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Tulsa, Smith entered the league with raw athletic potential and a reputation for physicality in the trenches. Originally projected as a developmental piece, Smith was thrust into a starting role much earlier than expected due to injuries on the Cowboys’ offensive line. As a rookie, he was called upon to fill in at left tackle and held his own against some of the league’s top pass rushers, showcasing his adaptability and resilience.
Since then, Smith has transitioned to left guard, where he has thrived. Over his first three NFL seasons, he has logged more than 3,300 snaps and established himself as a foundational piece on Dallas’s offensive line. According to PFF, he boasts a three-year grade of 79.1 — a strong mark that reflects consistent performance. In 2024, he posted a 76.0 pass-blocking grade, ranking among the top 10 guards in the league. His run-blocking has been equally impressive, with steady top-20 rankings in each of his seasons.
Smith’s growth hasn’t gone unnoticed by coaches, analysts, or fans. He was named to the Pro Bowl in each of the past two seasons and earned Second-Team All-Pro honors in 2023. His blend of power, quickness, and technique has made him one of the NFL’s most reliable interior linemen under 25.
The Cowboys have long been known for investing in elite offensive line talent, and Smith continues that legacy, following in the footsteps of stars like Tyron Smith, Zack Martin, and Travis Frederick. With his continued progression, Tyler Smith has positioned himself as the future anchor of the Dallas offensive line and a leader on and off the field.
Looking ahead, Smith will play a crucial role in protecting quarterback Dak Prescott and opening up lanes for running backs Tony Pollard and Rico Dowdle. As the Cowboys aim to return to Super Bowl contention, Smith’s performance in the trenches will be key to their success.
His placement in the top 25 under 25 list is more than a personal accolade — it’s a testament to the Cowboys’ development system and a sign that Dallas may have found its next great offensive lineman to lead the unit into the future.
