After 14 seasons in the NFL, Tyron Smith, the Dallas Cowboys’ premiere left tackle, announced his retirement. The 34-year-old is the last of Dallas’ formidable offensive line that dominated most of the 2010 to retire, now joining Doug Free, Travis Fredrrick and just recently, future HOF right guard, Zack Martin in hanging up his cleats. .Drafted ninth overall in 2011 out of USC, the eight time Pro-Bowler, and five time All-Pro spent 13 seasons before leaving in free agency to the New York Jets in the 2024 season. However, his heart remained with Dallas, where he spent 12 seasons and last year told DallasCowboys.com, “In 2011 as a young kid out of USC, I was blessed to be given the opportunity to play for the Dallas Cowboys. Since the day I was selected, it’s been my sole priority to give this organization, my teammates, and of course the fans everything I had to give. I loved being a Cowboy and establishing relationships over the years with people that will always be a part of my life.’
Smith will return to Dallas, signing a one-day contract on Wednesday to retire with a press conference scheduled at the Star in Frisco at 2 P.M. CT
The #Cowboys have announced a press conference for tomorrow at 3 pm ET (2 pm CT) on Tyron Smith’s future. https://t.co/Fm1yaG5UnK
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 15, 2025
Smith’s career was defined by his dominance at left tackle, a position that he switched to after a one-year stint at right tackle in his rookie season. For the next 12 seasons, he ferociously protected both Tony Romo and Dak Prescott’s blind side. Standing at 6 foot 5 inches and 320 pounds, his blend of size, athleticism, and strength made him a nightmare for pass rushers. He earned seven consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2013 to 2020 and was named to the NFL’s 2010s All-Decade Team.
Despite battling injuries in recent years, Smith’s impact never waned. In 2023, he played 13 games, earning yet another Pro Bowl nod.
Smith’s retirement marks the end of an era for Dallas. As he steps away, Smith leaves not just as a protector of quarterbacks, but a firm place in the Cowboys legacy. Those steps will undoubtedly lead him to his place in the Ring of Honor at AT&T Stadium and in Canton.
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Cowboys legend Tyron Smith will sign one-day contract to retire