The Dallas Cowboys have made two significant roster moves to strengthen their offensive line following the injury to Pro Bowl guard Tyler Smith. Smith has been placed on the injured reserve list due to a thumb injury that requires surgery, which is expected to keep him out for four to six weeks.
In response to Smith's absence, the Cowboys have promoted veteran interior lineman Nick Leverett from their practice squad to the active roster. Although Leverett is now on the active roster, he is not expected to replace Smith immediately in the starting lineup. Instead, T.J.
Bass is anticipated to step in as the starting left guard, bringing with him ten career starts and familiarity with the team's offense.
Leverett began his professional career as an undrafted free agent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020. He made his NFL debut in 2021 and remained with the Buccaneers until 2023, where he started ten games over his tenure.
In 2024, he played for both the New England Patriots and the Arizona Cardinals, where he worked with Cowboys offensive coordinator Clayton Adams, who was the offensive line coach at Arizona.
After being signed to a future/reserves contract by the Cowboys in January 2026, Leverett was released during the final roster cuts but later joined the practice squad. His promotion to the active roster now provides depth on the offensive line.
