Cowboys: Former Super Bowl champ highlights list of potential Tyron Smith replacements
The Dallas Cowboys are facing the consequences of not approaching the need for a "swing tackle" earlier in the offseason. With Tyron Smith set to miss multiple months of the 2022 season, it's time for urgency at left tackle. One thing is clear. The answer is not within the Cowboys' roster. So, we'll dive into […]
The Dallas Cowboys are facing the consequences of not approaching the need for a "swing tackle" earlier in the offseason. With Tyron Smith set to miss multiple months of the 2022 season, it's time for urgency at left tackle.
One thing is clear. The answer is not within the Cowboys' roster. So, we'll dive into some of the biggest names available in free agency. Let's get to it.
Eric Fisher
It's a surprise that Fisher hasn't been signed by any team weeks away from the regular season. After spending last year with the Indianapolis Colts, Fisher is currently a 31-year-old free agent.
Even after suffering a torn Achilles in the playoffs in January 2021, Fisher played 15 games for the Colts and did so at a solid level. In fact, the former Kansas City Chiefs OT has posted a pass block win rate of at least 87% in each of his past four seasons, per ESPN.
Although he's far from his prime, the two-time Pro Bowler is probably the best option in the market for the Cowboys. Chances are the veteran hasn't signed because he's been waiting for the right mix of money and playing time possibilities.
The Cowboys will likely look for a starting tackle and being a team expected to make the playoffs, Fisher makes a ton of sense.
Jason Peters
I know, I know. The guy is 40 years old. But he did play 15 games with the Chicago Bears last year and has been one of the very best in the business for a long time. I'll admit, it looked ugly at times in Chicago like the day Justin Fields was sacked nine times versus the Cleveland Browns.
That day, Peters didn't look like a guy that belonged in the NFL.
However, he finished as the 21st best-graded offensive tackle by PFF. The Cowboys would be foolish to overlook him just because his double-digit age starts with the number four.
Daryl Williams
Williams has been on Cowboys Nation's eye long before Tyron Smith's injury. He's a versatile lineman that could've been a great addition to the swing tackle role. Although he wouldn't be the best starting offensive tackle, the veteran can provide better play than the in-house options at Dallas' disposal.
Here's an excerpt from what I wrote on Williams back in April:
"Williams’ game is physical and tough, and he has ideal arm length for an offensive lineman at 35″ that ranks him in the 87th percentile of the league’s offensive linemen. But he’s also an efficient puller. Last year, he allowed only 14 pressures in 600 snaps at right guard, per PFF."
The downside is he'd need to play a position he hasn't played much in his NFL career. Although versatile and experienced at several spots, he's only played 188 career snaps at LT. His dominant position is RT and it would take a transition for the almost 30-year-old.
Other options
These are only three of the available offensive tackle free agents. There are more names the Cowboys could be interested such as Sam Tevi, who worked out for Dallas in April. Other names include:
- Bryan Bulaga
- Mike Remmers
- Nate Solder
- Marcus Cannon
Featured image via Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
