The Dallas Cowboys are apparently in no rush to part ways with one of their franchise legends. Speaking with the media Tuesday, executive vice president Stephen Jones expressed confidence that longtime left tackle Tyron Smith would be back with the team for the 2023 season.

Cowboys have three starting-caliber options at offensive tackle between Tyron Smith, Tyler Smith and Terence Steele. EVP Stephen Jones expects Tyron back. “The biggest takeaway from our meetings was you can’t have enough of these guys.” Did not rule out a contract reworking.

— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) February 28, 2023

Smith’s age, injury history, and inflated cap number created speculation the eight-time Pro Bowler could be a cap casualty this offseason. Smith has missed 33 games since 2020 and the Cowboys can save up to $13.6 million in cap space by releasing him.

Also working against Smith was the Cowboys’ acquisition of Tyler Smith in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. The rookie distinguished himself admirably over a colossal 1144 snaps last season, earning a 71.4 overall grade from Pro Football Focus and helping the Cowboys finish fourth in the league in points scored. It’s early, but the Tulsa product has already proven he has a future on the blindside.

That all being said, Tyron Smith has a long history with the Cowboys. He has appeared in 148 games for the franchise and played for five top-five scoring offenses. He’s a future Hall of Famer and likely a Ring of Honor candidate. It’s possible the team and Smith can figure something out. A reduced contract or a team-friendly extension could be a solution that suits everybody and keeps the relationship strong well into Smith’s retirement.

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