Cowboys must consider re-signing eight-time Pro Bowler

Aside from extending quarterback Dak Prescott, one of the Dallas Cowboys' biggest offseason questions is whether they'll re-sign left tackle Tyron Smith.

ESPN's Todd Archer suggested the 33-year-old could retire. He missed four games with injuries in 2023, and the Cowboys used a special practice plan where he worked on the side but still suited up for games.
 
Smith is one of the best offensive linemen in the league, though. He made second-team All-Pro, and Pro Football Focus gave him an 83.7 grade, fourth at his position. Giving him a new deal isn't an expensive proposition. Per Spotrac, his market value is a one-year, $7.4M contract.
 
The Cowboys aren't in a position to hand out new deals. Spotrac estimates they're $14.29M over the cap. Several stars like running back Tony Pollard and cornerback Stephon Gilmore are also entering free agency. This means Dallas must make tough calls and let some players walk.
 
Moving on from Smith would carry risk, but it's not impossible. The eight-time Pro Bowler hasn't played an entire season since 2015. During his rookie season, left guard Tyler Smith proved he could start at left tackle.
 
The Cowboys can try to find a potential replacement in the draft, too. In his latest mock draft, The Athletic's Diante Lee predicted they'll take Houston's Patrick Paul with the 24th pick. However, he noted the 23-year-old needs time to develop.  

Dallas should still try to bring Smith back on a short-term deal if he wants to play for one more season. They don't want to count on a rookie immediately developing into a viable starter. Not to mention Prescott needs dependable pass-blockers to flourish, helping the team get over the hump in the playoffs.