How injuries have accelerated a full overhaul of the Cowboys’ offensive line.
Injuries have played a significant role in expediting an overhaul of the Dallas Cowboys’ offensive line this season, creating both challenges and opportunities.
The Cowboys have done a commendable job reshaping their offensive line, even if the journey has been far from smooth. While not everything has gone according to plan, it’s becoming clear that the front office has a solid long-term vision.
The offseason raised eyebrows when the team allowed veteran All-Pro tackle Tyron Smith and Pro Bowl center Tyler Biadasz to leave in free agency, leaving significant gaps on the line. Adding to the skepticism, their only notable move in free agency was re-signing Chuma Edoga, a swing tackle who struggled last year. This left fans uneasy about the team’s preparation for the new season.
However, the Cowboys’ front office, known for playing the long game, had contingency plans in place. Tyler Smith, who shined as a rookie tackle in 2022 and earned All-Pro honors as a guard last season, proved his versatility by stepping in at left tackle seamlessly this year when needed. Meanwhile, the team had confidence in Brock Hoffman, an undrafted lineman who performed admirably in spot starts last year, as a backup option for Biadasz.
A key part of the Cowboys’ strategy was their confidence in the 2023 draft class. By trading their 24th overall pick for additional selections, they secured tackle Tyler Guyton and guard Cooper Beebe, who immediately stepped into starting roles. Guyton, transitioning from college right tackle to protecting Dak Prescott’s blindside, and Beebe, adapting from guard to center, faced a trial by fire but have shown promising growth.
In addition, injuries to veteran Zack Martin have allowed Hoffman to step in at right guard, where his physicality and fundamentals have impressed. Beebe, meanwhile, has excelled at center, handling elite defensive linemen like Dexter Lawrence without allowing a single pressure. Together with Smith and Hoffman, Beebe has bolstered the Cowboys’ interior line, adding strength and youth to the unit.
Although not the team’s original plan, the Cowboys have successfully rebuilt their offensive line. The group now features a younger core:
– LT Tyler Guyton, 22
– LG Tyler Smith, 23
– C Cooper Beebe, 23
– RG Brock Hoffman, 25
– RT Terence Steele, 27
With quality depth on the bench, including Asim Richards (24) and T.J. Bass (25), the Cowboys have positioned themselves well for the future. This transformation is another testament to their ability to adapt and evolve, even under pressure.
The Cowboys still have room for improvement and may turn to the draft once again to strengthen their roster. The current lineup may not be the final version, but with so many young players showing great potential, there’s plenty of reason to feel optimistic about the future of the Cowboys’ offensive line.
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