Cowboys Risk Losing Two-Time All-Pro Starter Due to New Injuries.
Tyron Smith, the starting tackle for the Dallas Cowboys, could lose time due to a fresh back ailment. Smith was not in practice on Thursday, December 21, 2023, which cast doubt on his availability for Week 16 against the Miami Dolphins. Zack Martin, a seasoned lineman, is also a problem for Dallas as he works to recover from a thigh ailment.
Tyron Smith (back) and Zack Martin (thigh) did not practice today, according to a December 21 message on X from Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News. Tyron Smith appears okay for Sunday if he can practice on Saturday. Malik Hooker (ankle) and Rico Dowdle (ankle) had limitations. Thumb Tony Pollard participated fully.
Smith’s status going to Miami, according to Nick Harris of DallasCowboys.com, is “up in the air.” The fresh injury is described as a “surprise” by the Cowboys reporter.
On December 21, Harris reported, “Smith surprisingly popped up on the injury report with a back injury that he suffered in the game against the Bills and is not expected to practice until at least Saturday.” The Cowboys will then be able to anticipate his status for Sunday with greater clarity.
The two-time All-Pro has struggled with numerous injuries in recent years, which has been an unfortunate pattern for Smith. Smith has already missed three games this season, and his most recent back ailment may prevent him from missing further games.
After suffering a hamstring injury in the preseason, the top tackle only participated in four games in the previous campaign. Smith has missed eight seasons in a row with a severe injury.
This offseason, Dallas must make a choice regarding Smith’s future. This previous offseason, there had been whispers about the veteran being cut by the Cowboys.
Smith consented to modify his contract such that it included incentives determined by the number of games he played. Smith’s eight-year, $97.6 million contract is coming to an end this season.
Smith continues to play at a high level when healthy, and it seems unlikely that the eight-time Pro Bowler will not have a market in free agency.
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