Dallas Cowboys left guard Tyler Smith was injured during the team’s win over the Detroit Lions on Saturday.
What’s the Latest on Tyler Smith?
According to a report by NFL Network, Smith completely tore the plantar fascia in his foot.
#Cowboys standout G Tyler Smith finally completely tore the plantar fascia in his foot last night, sources say, which sounds bad — but is actually good(!).
His status this week is TBD, but he'll be fine long-term. This can provide immediate relief for a player.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 31, 2023
This doesn’t sound good, but it’s better that it was a complete tear rather than a rupture. A rupture would take longer to heal and a more severe injury overall.
Smith will be fine in the long term from the tears he has. According to the report, Smith’s availability and status for Week 18 are still to be determined.
What Happened to Smith?
Smith was injured in the third quarter of the game before Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey made a 51-yard field goal to tie the game. The second-year guard was spotted walking off the field under his own power but with assistance from the medical staff.
After returning to the Cowboys ‘ sidelines, Smith was seen in the blue medical tent. Although he did not go into the locker room and was warming up on the sidelines when he was out of the tent, he did not re-enter the game and was eventually ruled out with a foot injury.
In Smith’s place, T.J. Bass stepped in as the team’s left guard, making it the second time Bass has played on the offensive line in the last three weeks because of injuries.
Smith has taken a significant second-year jump with the left side of the offensive line playing lights out for Dak Prescott.
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It would be ideal to have him return for the postseason to help the offensive line play its best to avoid a short playoff run.
Although the Cowboys’ offense has struggled on the road this season, the team will likely be on the road this postseason. Thus, having Smith back and as healthy as possible will be crucial for Dallas.
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