Cowboys guard Tyler Smith undergoes thumb surgery, return timeline uncertain

Dallas Cowboys left guard Tyler Smith will undergo surgery Tuesday for ligament damage in his left thumb and is expected to miss four to six weeks. The three-time Pro Bowler will be placed on injured reserve, making him ineligible to return until at least Week 5. T.J. Bass, who has 10 career starts, will replace Smith in the lineup as Dallas begins the season against the New York Giants. A Week 5 return against Tampa Bay is possible, but the short-week schedule could make an October 18 game at Green Bay a more realistic target. Smith’s absence adds to concerns surrounding a Cowboys offensive line already facing competition at right tackle.