Speculation had been swirling that veteran offensive tackle Tyron Smith was unlikely to re-sign with the Dallas Cowboys. Last week, news broke that Smith had agreed to a one-year deal with the New York Jets that could be worth as much as $20 million with incentives.
Smith, who is set to begin his fourteenth season in the NFL, has played his entire career with the Dallas Cowboys. The lineman was exceptional during his college days with USC and was rewarded for his hard work by being drafted by the Cowboys with the ninth overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. Since joining the franchise, Smith has gone on to be named a First-Team All-Pro twice and a Pro Bowler on eight occasions.
On Monday, Smith took to Instagram to thank the organization, city and fanbase for their support with a heartfelt message.
“Thirteen years sure is a long time to sum up in one short letter to thousands of people who have made my time in Dallas so memorable. It’s been a long and wild ride filled with plenty of ups and downs but, Cowboy Nation, you have been here through it all,” stated Smith.
Tyron Smith says goodbye to the Cowboys via this Instagram post pic.twitter.com/4aq8m2PV1K
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) March 18, 2024
Smith has been a staple in the lineup since making his debut in 2011. In total, he has appeared in 161 regular season games for the organization.
The 33-year-old went on to thank owner Jerry Jones and his family for providing him with the opportunity to represent the Cowboys.
“To the Jones family, thank you for the amazing opportunity to play for the Cowboys and the life changing experience that my family and I will forever be grateful for,” added Smith.
With four-time MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers set to return from injury in 2024, the veteran offensive lineman will be tasked with protecting one of the team’s most valuable assets. Smith may be moving to the Big Apple, but insisted Texas will always be special to him.
“Cowboy Nation — thank you for everything. While I’m excited for this next chapter of my football career, part of my heart will forever be left in Texas.”
