The Dallas Cowboys have yet another young star nearing a contract extension, and this one could cost them nearly $20 million per season.
The Dallas Cowboys are no strangers to making headlines, and their latest move is poised to send shockwaves through the NFL. With a knack for uncovering gems in the NFL Draft, the Cowboys have built a roster brimming with young talent, but keeping those stars comes with a hefty price tag. The latest player in line for a blockbuster contract is none other than All-Pro guard Tyler Smith, whose impending extension could redefine the market for interior linemen and cement his status as one of the league’s elite.
A Rising Star on the Offensive Line
Selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Tulsa, Tyler Smith has quickly ascended to become one of the premier interior linemen in the game. His combination of power, agility, and football IQ has made him a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ offensive line, protecting quarterback Dak Prescott and paving the way for a dynamic rushing attack. Smith’s versatility—he’s played both guard and tackle—has only added to his value, making him a linchpin for Dallas’ offensive success.
In just three seasons, Smith has earned All-Pro honors and established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His dominance on the field has not gone unnoticed, and with free agency looming after the 2025 season, the Cowboys are under pressure to lock him up before his price tag skyrockets even further.
The $76 Million Deal That Could Change Everything
According to Spotrac, Smith’s next contract is projected to be a four-year, $76 million extension, averaging $19.1 million per season. For a player of Smith’s caliber, this figure might actually be a bargain. The Cowboys already picked up the fifth-year option on his rookie deal, which will pay him $21.2 million in 2026. Given this benchmark, Smith’s representatives are unlikely to settle for anything less than a deal that reflects his status as one of the NFL’s top linemen.
A $76 million contract would place Smith among the highest-paid guards in the league, potentially setting a new standard for interior linemen. For context, recent contracts for elite guards like Quenton Nelson and Chris Lindstrom have pushed the market to new heights, and Smith’s deal could surpass them all. If the Cowboys delay negotiations, as they often do under owner Jerry Jones, the price could climb even higher, making the $76 million projection seem like a distant memory by the time pen meets paper.
Jerry Jones’ Checkbook Takes Another Hit
The Cowboys have been busy handing out massive contracts to their homegrown stars. In 2024 alone, they secured quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb with lucrative extensions, while defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa inked a four-year, $80 million deal. Edge rusher Micah Parsons is also on deck for a contract that could approach $40 million per year. Now, with Smith and cornerback DaRon Bland nearing free agency, Jones’ financial maneuvering will be put to the test.
The Cowboys’ front office has a reputation for playing the waiting game, often letting players’ values soar before finalizing deals. This strategy, while cost-saving in some cases, could backfire with Smith. As the market for top-tier linemen continues to rise, waiting too long might force Dallas to pay a premium or risk losing him to a rival team in free agency.
Why This Deal Matters
Tyler Smith’s potential $76 million extension isn’t just about one player—it’s about the evolving landscape of the NFL. Offensive linemen, long underappreciated compared to skill-position players, are finally getting their due. Smith’s deal could reset the market for guards, signaling to teams across the league that elite trench players are worth every penny. His impact on the field, from stonewalling pass rushers to opening lanes for running backs, is a reminder that games are won and lost in the trenches.
For the Cowboys, securing Smith is about more than just retaining talent—it’s about building a foundation for sustained success. With a young, dynamic core that includes Prescott, Lamb, Parsons, and now Smith, Dallas is positioning itself as a perennial contender. But with great talent comes great cost, and this deal could push the Cowboys’ salary cap to its limits.
Football Will Never Be the Same
Tyler Smith’s rise from a first-round pick to an All-Pro lineman is a testament to the Cowboys’ scouting prowess and his own relentless work ethic. His impending $76 million deal, while jaw-dropping, is a reflection of his value to the team and the league’s growing appreciation for elite offensive linemen. As the Cowboys prepare to make Smith one of the highest-paid players at his position, the ripple effects will be felt across the NFL.
Will this contract set a new benchmark for guards? Will it force other teams to rethink their spending priorities? One thing is certain: Tyler Smith’s blockbuster deal is about to make history, and football will never be the same.
