Tyron Smith is a notable offensive tackle, primarily recognized for his foundational role with the Dallas Cowboys and his subsequent tenure with the New York Jets, transitioning from a highly drafted prospect to a respected veteran in the NFL. After being drafted ninth overall by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2011 NFL Draft, making him the Cowboys’ highest first-round offensive linemen selection since 1966, Tyron Smith quickly established himself as a dominant force in the National Football League. Prior to his professional career, Smith was a highly decorated collegiate athlete at the University of Southern California (USC) from 2008 to 2010, where he earned the prestigious Morris Trophy in 2010 and was named First-team All-Pac-10 in the same year. He also received an All-Pac-10 honorable mention in 2009 and CollegeFootballNews.com Sophomore All-American honorable mention.
His dominance was recognized through eight Pro Bowl selections, achieved across multiple years including 2013 through 2019, and again in 2021. Further cementing his status, he earned five All-Pro honors, including First-team All-Pro in both 2014 and 2016, along with Second-team All-Pro in 2013, 2015, and 2023. In 2014, Smiths commitment to the Cowboys was solidified with an eight-year, $109 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid offensive lineman in the NFL at the time. His lasting impact on the game was further cemented by his selection to the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team.
Throughout his career, Smith was instrumental in protecting quarterbacks and paving the way for star running backs, contributing significantly to the Cowboys’ offensive success and solidifying his legacy as one of the premier offensive tackles of his generation.