Tyler Smith, the left guard for the Dallas Cowboys, quoted by Jon Machota on X, not only showcases his determination but also highlights his potential and capabilities across various dimensions—from technical skills and leadership to his role within the team. Let’s break down his abilities in detail based on his statement.
Cowboys Pro Bowl LG Tyler Smith while talking about the recent retirements of Zack Martin and Tyron Smith: “I got to continue the culture. The standard is still the standard. We got big dreams this offseason. We need that Lombardi Trophy, so we gotta do what we gotta do.” pic.twitter.com/R5sJTTLOOR
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) April 23, 2025
1. Technical Skills and On-Field Performance
Tyler Smith, a 2022 first-round NFL Draft pick by the Cowboys, has quickly established himself as one of the league’s most promising young linemen. He has been highly rated by Pro Football Focus (PFF), earning consistent grades in both pass protection and run blocking. In the 2024 season, Smith posted an average PFF grade of 85.2, placing him among the top 10 left guards in the NFL, and he earned a Pro Bowl selection—a testament to his elite skill set at just 23 years old.
Pass Protection: Smith excels at reading plays quickly and coordinating with his fellow linemen to protect quarterback Dak Prescott. In the past season, he allowed only 2 sacks across 600 snaps, an impressive feat for a young player. Run Blocking: With his ideal frame (6’5”, 324 lbs), Smith combines strength and agility to create running lanes for backs like Ezekiel Elliott or Deuce Vaughn. He frequently opens up significant gaps, helping the Cowboys maintain an effective ground game.
Smith’s statement reflects his understanding of his role in upholding the “standard” of the Cowboys’ offensive line—a unit once considered the NFL’s best thanks to Zack Martin and Tyron Smith. His confidence in aiming for the Lombardi Trophy indicates not only his skill but also his ambition, fitting for a young player at the peak of his game.
2. Leadership and Ability to Carry Forward a Legacy
The phrase “I got to continue the culture” reveals that Tyler Smith is not just a technically proficient player but also a potential leader. Zack Martin and Tyron Smith were legends for the Cowboys, not only for their skills but for the professional, disciplined culture they built. Smith’s willingness to take on the responsibility of “continuing the culture” highlights his capabilities in:
Young Leadership: At just 23, Smith displays maturity beyond his years. He’s often cited by teammates as a vocal presence in the locker room, especially after the departure of his veteran counterparts. This is crucial for the Cowboys, who are in a transitional phase. Motivational Influence: Phrases like “We got big dreams” and “We need that Lombardi Trophy” show Smith’s ability to inspire. He’s not just focused on himself but sets collective goals for the team, demonstrating the mindset of a potential leader.
3. Adaptability and Growth Potential
With the departure of Zack Martin and Tyron Smith, the Cowboys’ offensive line faces a significant void. However, Smith’s statement shows he’s not intimidated by the challenge but ready to step up. This reflects his adaptability and growth potential:
Handling Pressure: Smith transitioned from left tackle (at the University of Tulsa) to left guard in the NFL and quickly adapted, becoming one of the league’s top left guards. This shows his ability to learn fast and adjust his game to meet team needs. Growth Mindset: The phrase “We gotta do what we gotta do” indicates a readiness to change, improve, and work hard. Smith is likely to continue refining his skills, especially in coordinating with new linemen to rebuild a strong offensive line.
4. Competitive Mentality and Drive to Win
Smith’s statement reveals a strong competitive mentality and a deep desire to win. The Cowboys haven’t won a Super Bowl since 1996, and Smith’s mention of the “Lombardi Trophy” shows he’s not content with smaller achievements like a Pro Bowl nod. He’s aiming for the ultimate prize, which reflects:
Fearless Mindset: Despite the Cowboys’ recent playoff struggles, Smith isn’t afraid to set lofty goals. This demonstrates mental toughness and a readiness to face pressure from fans and media. Dedication to Success: Smith isn’t just looking to maintain the standard—he wants to elevate the team. He understands that winning the Lombardi Trophy requires harder work, better strategies, and improved teamwork.
5. Strategic Role in the Cowboys’ Lineup
With Martin and Tyron Smith gone, the Cowboys need a new anchor for their offensive line, and Tyler Smith appears ready to take on that role. His capabilities extend beyond individual performance to how he can elevate the entire unit:
Offensive Line Anchor: As a left guard, Smith is critical in protecting Dak Prescott’s blind side and creating lanes for running plays. His consistency will help the Cowboys maintain a balanced offense between passing and running—a key factor for playoff success. Bridging Generations: Smith can serve as a bridge between younger players and the Cowboys’ traditional values. He can help new linemen like T.J. Bass or Asim Richards integrate faster, fostering a cohesive offensive line for the future.
6. Limitations and Challenges
Despite his strengths, Tyler Smith still has areas to improve to truly lead the Cowboys to a Lombardi Trophy:
Playoff Experience: Smith lacks extensive experience in high-stakes playoff games, where pressure and strategy shift significantly. He’ll need to prove he can maintain his performance in critical moments. Handling Expectations: With Martin and Tyron Smith gone, Smith will face immense pressure from fans and coaches. He’ll need to stay mentally strong to avoid being overwhelmed by these expectations.
Conclusion
Tyler Smith’s statement is more than just an ambitious declaration—it’s a testament to his well-rounded capabilities, from technical prowess and leadership to adaptability and a fierce drive to win. At 23, he’s already a cornerstone for the Cowboys and has the potential to become one of the NFL’s best linemen in the coming years. However, to achieve the “big dreams” of a Lombardi Trophy, Smith will need to continue growing, overcome pressure, and lead the Cowboys’ offensive line through the challenges of the 2025 season. Based on what he’s shown so far, fans have every reason to be optimistic about his and the team’s future.