FRISCO — The Dallas Cowboys face a significant roster setback just days before their 2026 season opener. The team confirmed that starting offensive lineman Tyler Smith has been placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for the immediate start of the campaign.
The move forces the Cowboys to adjust their offensive front ahead of their first game. Under current NFL regulations, a player placed on injured reserve before the initial 53-man roster is finalized or during the early season window must miss a minimum of four games before becoming eligible to return to the active lineup.
Smith has been a fixture on the Dallas offensive line, providing stability at the position. His absence creates a void in the team's protection scheme, requiring the coaching staff to shuffle personnel and rely on depth options to fill the vacancy during the opening month of the schedule.
The Cowboys must now finalize their contingency plans for the upcoming matchup. The front office and coaching staff will evaluate internal replacements as they prepare for the start of the regular season without one of their primary blockers.