Cowboys rookie gets ultimate praise by renowned NFL Draft insider
When Roger Goodell announced the Dallas Cowboys had picked OT Tyler Smith with the 24th pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, almost everyone thought they were reaching. A year later, the sentiment has drastically changed. Tyler started all 17 games for the Cowboys and provided quality play at left tackle and left guard. After spending […]
When Roger Goodell announced the Dallas Cowboys had picked OT Tyler Smith with the 24th pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, almost everyone thought they were reaching.
A year later, the sentiment has drastically changed. Tyler started all 17 games for the Cowboys and provided quality play at left tackle and left guard.
After spending his entire first offseason in the league preparing to play guard, he didn't skip a beat when he was kicked outside to tackle following Tyron Smith's injury just weeks before the season.
The rookie aced every test in his first year with the Cowboys. His success was of such magnitude that NFL Network's top Draft insider Daniel Jeremiah had the ultimate praise for him.
"(Tyler Smith) would be the first offensive lineman picked if he were to enter the draft after what we've seen this year because you nailed it, the ability was all in there," said Jeremiah in a press conference call.
At the time, no one denied Smith's athleticism. But there were some issues with his game that, even though they were still noticeable throughout his rookie season, were not a liability for the Cowboys in 2022.
"He needed to dial some things back a little bit obviously with the penalties that he had. Ultra, ultra-aggressive, which led to some balance issues as well."
Of course, Smith's performance is also a testament to the Cowboys' work with him as well as to Duke Manyweather's work. The private trainer has become famous for his OL development skills and works with some of the best players in the entire NFL.
"That was a good pick and a good job of developing him by the Cowboys," said Jeremiah.
Tyler Smith will be a huge piece of the puzzle for the Cowboys next season. The front office must reach a decision on Tyron Smith's future very soon. The left tackle could be a cap casualty but arguably, Dallas' best front five could feature Tyron at tackle and Tyler at guard.
Ultimately, the fact that Tyler has proven to be good in both positions is a huge break for the Cowboys as his flexibility keeps many doors open.
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Featured image via Raymond Carlin III-USA TODAY Sports
