Dallas Cowboys left guard Tyler Smith is scheduled to undergo thumb surgery Tuesday and will be placed on injured reserve, the team announced Sunday. A pro bowler each of the last three years, Smith is set to miss the first four weeks of the season, at least, and potentially more after head coach Brian Schottenheimer put his timeline at 4-6 weeks.
It's a tough break for a Cowboys offensive line looking to take another step forward in 2026 after paving the way for a top-10 rushing offense last season. With questions still remaining at right tackle, Smith's absence makes the line significantly weaker and changes the fantasy outlook for starting running back Javonte Williams.
One of the breakout fantasy stars of 2025, Williams won't find it easy
repeating last year's 1,200-yard campaign and 4.8 yards per carry with Smith out.
Cowboys All-Pro LG Tyler Smith is scheduled to undergo thumb surgery Tuesday and is expected to be sidelined 4-6 weeks, per Dallas HC Brian Schottenheimer.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 7, 2026
Depending how Smith's backup performs in pass protection, this injury could also have an impact on Dak Prescott and his pass catchers after Dallas' line allowed the ninth-fewest sacks in 2025. But as a guard, Smith's impact begins in the rushing attack.
On the bright side, the pro bowler who only missed one game last season will return at some point. So any dip in fantasy value for Williams and others should only be temporary.
Who is Javonte Williams' backup?
Dallas' backup running back is Malik Davis, who doesn't carry much fantasy value outside of being a handcuff. Especially now behind a depleted offensive line.
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This article originally appeared on For The Win: Tyler Smith injury should drop Javonte Williams down fantasy football draft boards
