Cowboys Secure Their Cornerstones: Tyler Smith Becomes Highest-Paid Guard in NFL History

The Dallas Cowboys have made a definitive statement about their commitment to their young core, signing two-time Pro Bowl guard Tyler Smith to a four-year, $96 million contract extension. The deal, which includes a staggering $81.2 million guaranteed, makes the 24-year-old the highest-paid guard in NFL history, surpassing the $23.5 million average annual value of Trey Smith's recent extension with the Chiefs.

The signing is a major victory for the Cowboys, who are in the process of rebuilding their offensive line after the offseason retirements of franchise mainstays Zack Martin and Tyron Smith. While the team recently parted ways with star pass rusher Micah Parsons, they have prioritized locking up their foundational pieces. Tyler Smith is the third young starter to receive a long-term deal this offseason, following cornerback DaRon Bland and tight end Jake Ferguson.

Smith's ascent to the top of the financial market has been meteoric. Selected with the 24th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, he was immediately thrust into a starting role at left tackle due to an injury to Tyron Smith. The versatile rookie thrived, and his performance earned him a permanent spot as the team's starting left guard, a position he has excelled at for the past two seasons, earning consecutive Pro Bowl nods.

His new position as the cornerstone of the Cowboys' offensive line is not taken lightly by the organization. First-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer praised Smith, stating, "I think he's the best guard in football. I don't think I'm overselling him. I really think he is."

The Cowboys had already picked up Smith's fifth-year option, but this new deal secures his future with the team through 2030, providing long-term stability for their offensive line. By investing heavily in Smith, the Cowboys are signaling their strategy of building from the trenches and protecting their most valuable assets. The deal not only rewards Smith for his stellar play but also sends a clear message that the Cowboys are committed to keeping their core intact for a Super Bowl push.