Tyler Smith Poised to Break NFL Record as Cowboys’ Offensive Anchor
Dallas Cowboys offensive guard Tyler Smith is rapidly emerging as one of the NFL’s most dominant interior linemen, and now he’s on the brink of making history. At just 24 years old, Smith has already carved out an elite reputation with his versatility, strength, and consistency—qualities that may soon earn him the richest contract ever for an interior offensive lineman.
Drafted in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Tulsa, Smith made an immediate impact for the Cowboys. He started every game as a rookie, showcasing a rare blend of athleticism and technical polish. Since then, he has started all 47 games of his NFL career, playing both guard and tackle when needed. His durability and adaptability have made him an irreplaceable part of the Cowboys’ offensive line.
Smith’s rapid rise hasn’t gone unnoticed. He’s already earned two Pro Bowl selections and was named a second-team All-Pro, affirming his status among the league’s best. The Cowboys recently exercised his fifth-year option, locking him in through the 2026 season with a projected salary of $21.27 million for that year. However, both the team and league insiders expect an even bigger move on the horizon.
According to analysts, Smith is in line for a massive contract extension that could break the $100 million mark—making him the highest-paid offensive guard in NFL history. If that happens, he would surpass the current record held by Indianapolis Colts guard Quenton Nelson, whose deal is worth $80 million over four years. Given the Cowboys’ history of rewarding their franchise players—such as Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Zack Martin—Smith’s extension seems inevitable.
The timing is critical. With longtime linemen Tyron Smith and Zack Martin both recently retiring, Tyler Smith is now the leader of a younger, retooled offensive line. His experience, leadership, and performance will be vital as the Cowboys transition under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer. In many ways, Smith is expected to carry the legacy of dominance that the Dallas offensive line has been known for over the past decade.
Beyond the numbers and accolades, Smith represents a new era of Cowboys football. His development reflects the team’s investment in the trenches and their commitment to building from the inside out. As the team eyes a deep playoff run in 2025, Smith will be one of the foundational pieces—both protecting quarterback Dak Prescott and paving the way for the run game.
In a league where games are often won and lost at the line of scrimmage, a player like Tyler Smith is invaluable. Whether it’s anchoring the line against elite pass rushers or opening up holes for the running backs, his presence is felt on every snap. And soon, his paycheck will reflect just how important he is—not just to the Cowboys, but to the future of offensive line play in the NFL.
