Report: No clause in Tyler Smith's contract for moving from guard to tackle

Tyler Smith is closing out the regular season at left tackle for the Dallas Cowboys, shifting over from his normal left guard spot. There are now talks of him taking over the position full-time at the beginning of the 2026 season. A massive leap in responsibilities for Smith, all without the financial implications.

When Smith signed an extension with the Cowboys, he did so with the thought of playing left guard for them. So if he wanted a pay increase for becoming a left tackle, he unfortunately cannot get it. Clarence Hill of DLLS put out a report on Tuesday over the matter, saying it’s actually against the NFL’s CBA.

“There is no clause in Tyler Smith’s contract with the Cowboys that compensates him if he moves from guard to tackle,” Hill said via X. “It’s actually illegal to do so under the cba, per Smith’s representative. It’s not allowed. Smith is paid at the top of the guard market but to tackle is a different tax bracket. He is well aware of the difference.”

Smith agreed to a four-year deal with the Cowboys, valued at $96 million. He will be in Dallas through the 2030 season as part of his rookie contract remains before the extension kicks in. An average annual value of $24 million is the best among guards in the NFL.

Comparing the salary to tackles, Smith would rank on the lower end of the top 10. Still well compensated overall but not like somebody who just recently signed the deal.

Tuesday also brought comments on the situation from Smith. While he admitted doing what’s best for the team is top priority, the former All-Pro also reminded the media of his previous accolades.

“I’m an All-Pro guard, bro. You feel me?” Smith said via Nick Harris of The Fort Worth Star-Telegram. “That’s the simple truth if we’re just looking purely off facts. We’ll see what happens. We’ll have those conversations and kind of see where everybody’s head is at.” “I’m not letting my mind getting too far ahead with that. In my mind, it’s just for the rest of the season.”

In reality, the Cowboys are beginning to move attention to the 2026 season. How the offensive line exactly shakes out will be a big question. Not just early in the offseason but into the NFL Draft and through training camp. Movement certainly feels possible, even if Smith hinted at wanting to remain at left guard.