Cowboys: NFL writer says rookie’s future is still undecided
Tyler Smith's NFL debut went quite well last weekend when the Dallas Cowboys took on the Denver Broncos in the preseason opener. But that doesn't make his starting job secure, according to The Athletic's Arif Hasan. In a recent article summarizing how every rookie has fared in the preseason, Hasan notes that Smith's battle with Connor McGovern […]
Tyler Smith's NFL debut went quite well last weekend when the Dallas Cowboys took on the Denver Broncos in the preseason opener. But that doesn't make his starting job secure, according to The Athletic's Arif Hasan.
In a recent article summarizing how every rookie has fared in the preseason, Hasan notes that Smith's battle with Connor McGovern for the left guard spot is legitimate.
"His strength and upside have been obvious in camp, but his lack of technical development has been, too," writes Hasan. "His competition with Connor McGovern for the starting left guard job appears to be genuine, and we won’t know who wins out until Week 1."
That's quite the statement right there. Even though the Cowboys have had Smith and McGovern battle for the starting role throughout the offseason, it's mostly been believed to be a formality.
After all, NFL teams don't like handing jobs to rookies without a fight.
Even still, after the Cowboys' opening draft night, the front office essentially confirmed they hoped for Smith to contribute immediately at guard. With McGovern struggling when given a chance last season, Smith has had the inside track for the job since Day 1.
Smith's film from last weekend suggests he can contribute early, but it's worth pointing out the Cowboys are set to face multiple scary duos at defensive tackle early in the season.
Perhaps Hasan has a point. Dallas will have to decide whether or not they want to let Smith go through the fire or if they prefer to give him some extra time behind McGovern. The decision is made more difficult by McGovern's play from 2021 which inspired no trust at all and had him back on the bench pretty soon.
It's a tough decision for the coaching staff and could define the Cowboys' early success on offense this season. I'd argue that Tyler Smith is set to win the job, getting the bulk of the work in preseason to ensure he's as ready as possible.
However, Cowboys Nation should be well aware that this isn't going to be Zack Martin's rookie season in 2014. There will be a learning curve and it won't be pretty.
Tyler Smith has proven he can win reps with his explosiveness and strength but there will be technical issues throughout the season. As long as he's somewhere between solid (average) and good as a rookie, the Cowboys should consider it a win.
Featured image via Jason Parkhurst-USA TODAY Sports
