The absence of Tyron Smith will make it harder for the Cowboys to run their plays. The first part of the story is over.
According to sources, Dallas Cowboys left tackle Tyron Smith is unlikely to return before the end of the season after tearing his left hamstring during Wednesday's practice.
Smith could have an operation as soon as Thursday, according to sources.
He went to the ground after making a block on the other side of the ball. He was able to walk to the locker room without assistance, and the initial tests showed that his left knee was undamaged.
Smith left the locker room without appearing to be limping.
A gaping hole has been created on the offensive line because of the loss of Smith.
During training camp and the first two preseason games, Tyler Smith has only been used at left guard, the position he was drafted to be the left tackle of the future. Smith missed two practices because of an ankle injury.
When Smith has taken breaks, the Cowboys have played Josh Ball at left tackle, a position he did not play as a fourth-round pick because of an ankle injury. They drafted Matt Waletzko in the fifth round this year, but he only practiced this week after dealing with a shoulder injury.
Collins hasn't played in a game since the beginning of the year. He was on the Dallas practice squad.
In free agency or via trade, the Cowboys could look for veteran help. Eric Fisher started 15 games for the Indianapolis Colts last season.
According to the NFL Players Association figures, Dallas has more than $20 million in salary-cap space, but a good portion of that is going to be used for the practice squad and in-season call-ups.
During team activities and mini camp, Tyler Smith took snaps at left tackle. During training camp, the Cowboys wanted him to focus on one position.
Tyron Smith has had a number of injuries in recent years and has not played a full season since 2015. He missed a lot of games because of surgery. He missed six games last year because of an ankle injury.
Smith will turn 32 in December. He will be with us through the year 2023.
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