Dallas Cowboys: Tyron Smith "on track to play" vs Browns

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The Dallas Cowboys offensive line has been in shambles during the first three weeks of the 2020 season. Starting right tackle La’el Collins is on injured reserve and backup tackle Cam Erving is dealing with an MCL sprain. The biggest concern on the offensive line, however, is perennial starting left tackle Tyron Smith who hasn’t played since Week 1 as he’s dealt with a neck injury he suffered on September 17 in practice.

Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy joined 105.3 The Fan on Friday morning and provided an extremely positive update on Smith, saying the veteran is “on track to play” this Sunday vs the Cleveland Browns.

Tyron Smith (neck) is "on track to play" when the #Browns visit the #Cowboys — per Mike McCarthy.

— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) October 2, 2020

After only missing one game in his first five seasons, Smith has battled nagging injuries consistently. He’s missed three games in each of the previous four seasons. In his absence, this season, undrafted free agent Brandon Knight has filled in and done a pretty nice job. He’s only allowed one sack and three pressures in his two starts according to Pro Football Focus.

While that’s certainly impressive, there’s no substitute for a player like Smith. When healthy, he’s still one of the best at his position in the league. If he is to play Sunday, it could mean a switch to right tackle for the aforementioned Knight to fill in for the injured Collins.

Browns defensive end Myles Garrett is off to a great start to the 2020 season with three sacks, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries so far. This makes the news of Smith likely playing Sunday even more important as he’ll be responsible for protecting the blind side of quarterback Dak Prescott.

The Dallas Cowboys offensive line is holding on by a thread so getting Smith back is essential as they look to even their record at 2-2 this Sunday in Arlington.