Cowboys Sign Tyler Smith to Four-Year Extension, Making Him NFL’s Highest-Paid Interior Lineman
The Dallas Cowboys have secured a cornerstone for their offensive line, agreeing to a massive four-year, $96 million contract extension with Pro Bowl left guard Tyler Smith. The deal includes $81.2 million in guaranteed money, making Smith the highest-paid interior offensive lineman in NFL history.
Smith’s journey with the Cowboys began when he was drafted in the first round (No. 24 overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Tulsa. Initially projected to play guard, he filled in as a rookie left tackle after injuries sidelined All-Pro Tyron Smith. By 2023, with Tyron healthy, the younger Smith moved inside and quickly emerged as one of the league’s best guards, earning second-team All-Pro honors in back-to-back seasons (2023 and 2024) and securing a Pro Bowl nod.
This season marks the fourth year of his rookie deal, valued at $13.4 million. The Cowboys had already exercised his $21.2 million fifth-year option for 2026 but chose to lock him up long-term instead of risking another offseason of negotiations.
The timing of the extension carries extra weight. Dallas entered the year under the cloud of failing to reach a deal with All-Pro pass rusher Micah Parsons, sparking speculation about the team’s ability to retain its top stars. Tyler Smith’s extension sends a strong message: the Cowboys intend to keep their offensive core intact for years to come.
Prior to Smith’s deal, Kansas City Chiefs Pro Bowler Trey Smith held the title of highest-paid guard after signing a four-year, $92 million contract in July. Now, Tyler Smith surpasses him, resetting the market for interior linemen.
With this extension, the Cowboys have not only secured the leader of their offensive line but also made a long-term investment in protecting Dak Prescott and building a championship-caliber roster.
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