T.J. Bass steps into the starting lineup at left guard
The immediate consequence is a promotion for T.J. Bass to the starting left guard spot, replacing the injured All-Pro Tyler Smith. Smith is expected to miss four to six weeks after surgery, placing him on Injured Reserve. Dallas is betting on Bass to capably fill the void. Bass has shown himself to be a high-caliber backup capable of starting for other NFL teams. The Cowboys paid him a $6 million tender this offseason, signaling their trust in his ability. In five starts last season, Dallas averaged roughly 35 points per game with Bass on the field, indicating that the offense can function effectively with him at guard.
Smith’s value at multiple positions makes his absence particularly impactful, but the team appears to have a sensible plan for replacing him at left guard. While losing Smith will hurt, the left guard position is arguably the most absorbable when an injury occurs, given Bass’s familiarity with the scheme and role.
The backup left tackle situation becomes a concern
The injury to Smith also complicates the Cowboys’ contingency plans at left tackle. The team had brought in Broderick Jones to push for the right tackle job, while Terence Steele has been the starter on the right. Jones has indicated that his previous experience with frequent positional switching was challenging, and he has been taking snaps exclusively at right tackle. This suggests that Jones is being viewed primarily as a right tackle, not as a versatile swing tackle.
This development tightens the Cowboys’ options on the left side. The previous plan likely involved moving Tyler Smith from guard to left tackle if needed, but with Smith out, that contingency is no longer available. If Guyton suffers an injury or if the team needs help at left tackle, Jones could theoretically be called upon there, but the current setup points to potential gaps at the position if further injuries occur. In short, the backup plan at left tackle is less flexible than once hoped, increasing the stakes for how the Cowboys protect the quarterback and establish stability on the edge.
Nick Leverett could be reactivated from the practice squad
With Bass entrenched at left guard, the Cowboys will need a reliable backup center. Nick Leverett, who had a strong preseason showing at center, could be recalled from the practice squad to add depth behind Bass. Leverett previously emerged as a surprise during cutdown day, establishing himself as a viable center option. Reintegrating Leverett would provide the Cowboys with more versatility up front and allow Bass to focus on guard duties without overextending himself at center.
Leverett has used practice squad call-ups to stay in the loop, and the Cowboys have until they exhaust their three-practice-squad call-ups to sign him to the 53-man roster. The timing of Leverett’s return will depend on how Dallas manages the roster during Smith’s four-to-six-week IR window and whether they need immediate depth at center or guard.
Run-game plan could shift without Smith’s pulling power
One of the strengths of the Cowboys’ run game under offensive coordinator Klayton Adams has been the ability of the left guard to pull and lead on counters, traps, and power plays. Tyler Smith’s athleticism and power were a core element of that identity. Bass is solid and capable, but his style differs from Smith’s. The team may need to adjust by reducing the reliance on Bass as a pulling guard or by modifying blocking schemes to preserve the run-game effectiveness.
This shift could alter how frequently the Cowboys deploy power runs and outside-zone concepts that depend on a guard pulling to the second level. The confidence in Bass suggests the offense can adapt, but it may take time for the blocking timelines and second-level blocking to mesh with the new personnel.
Pass protection becomes more complex
Left tackle protection has been a focal point in recent seasons, as Tyler Guyton showed significant improvement, aiming to ease the pressure on the interior. With Bass filling left guard, Dallas might need to adjust the protection calls and sliding protections, especially if they want to maximize help for the right side or keep additional blockers in to assist Terence Steele.
The shift in personnel at left guard adds another variable to the balancing act of protection schemes. Dallas could lean more on staying in and chipping with running backs or tight ends, or they may adjust their half-slide tendencies to ensure the pocket stays clean for the quarterback. Either approach adds a layer of complexity as the unit adapts to new lines and responsibilities.
What to watch going forward
– How Bass performs as the primary left guard: His execution in both pass protection and the run game will directly influence the offense’s efficiency and scoring ability.
– The flexibility of the left tackle position: If Broderick Jones earns a starting or significant role, his development and how quickly he adapts to the responsibilities of left-side play will be critical.
– Center depth and Leverett’s return: The added depth at center will be important for keeping the interior stable, particularly if there are any shifts in guard responsibilities or additional injuries.
– Offensive line communication and schemes: The coaching staff may need to adjust protections and run-game calls to align with the new guard dynamics, ensuring that the quarterback has a clean pocket and that the line can execute interior and exterior runs effectively.
Overall, the Cowboys have the pieces to navigate a month-plus without Smith, but the adjustments required across the offensive line will test the unit’s depth and versatility. The coming weeks will reveal how well Bass, Leverett, and the rest of the line can adapt to the changes and sustain the offense’s productivity during Smith’s absence. The situation underscores the importance of depth and adaptability in the trenches, where even a single injury can ripple through the entire game plan.
