This offseason, the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Jets may trade offensive lineman.
The loss of Tyron Smith to the green and white has left a hole in the trenches for America’s Team, according to ESPN’s Bill Barnwell.
Barnwell clarified, “[Laken] Tomlinson could step in at guard, where his size would be a plus for a team that failed to impress in short-yardage and goal-line situations a year ago if Dallas wants to move 2022 first-round pick Tyler Smith from left guard to left tackle.”
For Tomlinson, Barnwell said the Cowboys were the “best fit.” In an attempt to save money, Gang Green terminated the $40 million starter before he entered free agency.
There’s a chance that Tomlinson will rejoin the Jets.
Since being released, Tomlinson, 32, hasn’t gained much interest from other teams on the open market. There is a chance that the green and white will eventually return if that keeps happening.
Although Tomlinson was signed in 2022 with the intention of starting, he would only be a backup if he were to return to New York this offseason.
Expectations and pricing are crucial. Tomlinson was a concern, costing $13 million and being the most expensive player on an offensive line that was terribly disappointing for New York. But when seen from a more practical perspective at 32, he’s a reliable guard who provides more value as a run-blocker than a pass-blocker, according to Barnwell. “He’s probably best in a gap scheme where his size and power play up, but his best work came with the 49ers when Kyle Shanahan was still leaning more toward zone concepts.”
Despite his two seasons of disappointment in New York, the former Duke product was always available.
Tomlinson was the only reliable player on an offensive line that was always in flux, playing in 34 of the 34 games that were feasible. Tomlinson’s leadership abilities were likewise highly regarded.
Insider Inquiring About Tyron Smith’s Free Agency With the Jets
During his media conference, Smith disclosed that his choice between returning to Dallas or the Jets was the deciding factor in the free agency lottery.
Tyron Smith was acquired by the Jets for a guaranteed $6.5 million. With that low of a number, any risk can be justified by the possible gain. The fact that 31 other clubs passed on or didn’t make an attempt to draft someone with Smith’s background, however, is either concerning or perplexing, depending on your perspective. Unavoidably wonders if something is there. On social media, SNY’s Connor Hughes stated, “Time will tell.”
The Jets were accused by a fan of “bidding against themselves,” to which Hughes immediately replied.
They made no bids against one another. Douglas is very focused on his numbers, which is why they won’t be played that way anymore. “No Jets tax,” said Hughes. They thought they were penning a deal that the Cowboys would accept. It’s set up this way because Joe wasn’t going to take on someone else’s workload. When he said yes, everyone gasped. They didn’t believe he would.
Smith deserves praise for stating that he believed it was a fair agreement and that the contract he signed reflects his history of injuries. Everyone benefits from it.
