Cowboys Legend Tyron Smith Returns to Dallas to Retire

FRISCO, Texas — Tyron Smith, the former Dallas Cowboys stalwart left tackle, is set to return to the team to officially retire after an illustrious NFL career. Smith will sign a one-day contract with the Cowboys, marking the end of a 14-season journey that began in Dallas, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on Tuesday.

Smith, a five-time All-Pro and eight-time Pro Bowler, established himself as a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ offensive line since being selected in the first round of the 2011 Draft. Over his career, he played 13 seasons with Dallas before spending his final year in 2024 with the New York Jets, appearing in 10 games.

Originally drafted as a right tackle, Smith quickly transitioned to left tackle, where he became a key protector for quarterbacks, including Tony Romo and eight others over his tenure. He consistently showcased his prowess, allowing just 39 career sacks across his career, a notable achievement according to Pro Football Focus. Despite giving up eight sacks during his rookie year, he never exceeded five in a season afterward and recorded four campaigns where he allowed just a single sack in at least 400 snaps.

Injuries impacted Smith’s career, forcing him to miss 44 games over the last five seasons, and he has not completed a full season since 2015. Yet, his impact on the field has solidified his legacy, and he was even named to the 2010s All-Decade team.

“I’m incredibly grateful for my time with the Cowboys, the fans, and my teammates,” Smith said in a statement. “I look forward to closing this chapter the way it began, as a Cowboy.”

Smith’s retirement epitomizes the end of an era for the Cowboys, who now see the departure of a player who played a pivotal role alongside fellow retirees Zack Martin and Travis Frederick.

As he walks away from the game, Smith leaves behind a profound legacy as one of the premier left tackles in NFL history, returning to the team where his career began and where he became a beloved figure.