The Dallas Cowboys face a critical matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a primetime game. The team enters the contest with a 2-2 record, having narrowly defeated the Houston Texans in Week 4. Their offense has been unexpectedly average, while the defense ranks among the league’s worst.
Thursday night’s game offers a chance for the Cowboys to make a significant impact, especially as they welcome back one of their top players. NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported on Thursday morning that the Cowboys have activated All-Pro guard Tyler Smith from injured reserve to play against the Buccaneers.
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Smith tore his left thumb during training camp in August and underwent surgery. He was placed on IR just before the regular season began, missing the first four games. The Cowboys opened his 21-day practice window on Monday, and by Wednesday, he was a full participant in practice, indicating his readiness to play.
The first-round pick in 2022, Smith has achieved three consecutive Pro Bowl selections and received second-team All-Pro honors in 2023. He started 63 games in his initial four seasons and is considered one of the top interior offensive linemen in the league.
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The return of Smith is a significant boost for quarterback Dak Prescott and the Cowboys’ offense, which still poses a threat with Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and George Pickens. However, their running game has been struggling, averaging just 89.5 rushing yards per game, one of the lowest in the league. Smith’s presence is expected to improve this aspect, even though the Buccaneers possess a formidable run defense, allowing only 78.5 yards per game, the third-best in the NFL.