Cowboys Facing Thin Left Tackle Market in Free Agency

Dallas must find a long-term solution at a key position with limited options available.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys are in need of a long-term answer at left tackle, but the 2026 NFL free agency class offers slim pickings. With 2024 first-round pick Tyler Guyton struggling with injuries and All-Pro guard Tyler Smith being moved to tackle to finish last season, the Cowboys have questions to answer on Dak Prescott's blindside. The free agent market features a few intriguing names like Braxton Jones and Braden Smith, but the top options like Rasheed Walker will likely be too expensive for Dallas to pursue.

Why it matters

The left tackle position is crucial for protecting the quarterback's blind side, and the Cowboys have been searching for stability there. With Guyton's injury issues and Smith's future uncertain, Dallas must find a reliable long-term solution, but the limited free agent options this offseason make that a challenge.

The details

The Cowboys signed Hakeem Adeniji last year, and he provided some depth and spot starts, but the team is still looking for a more permanent answer. Braxton Jones of the Bears and Braden Smith of the Colts are two intriguing free agent options, but both will likely command high-priced contracts that could be out of reach for Dallas. The top left tackle on the market, Rasheed Walker, would be an ideal solution but is expected to demand a deal worth around $20 million per year, far exceeding the Cowboys' budget.

  • The 2026 NFL free agency period begins on March 11.

The players

Tyler Guyton

The Cowboys' 2024 first-round pick at left tackle, who has struggled with injuries through his first two NFL seasons.

Tyler Smith

The Cowboys' All-Pro left guard who was moved to left tackle to finish the 2025 season, but has been told he will return to guard in 2026.

Braxton Jones

A 26-year-old left tackle who was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2022 after being drafted in the fifth round by the Chicago Bears.

Braden Smith

A 29-year-old right tackle for the Indianapolis Colts who has started 105 games over the past eight seasons and was also named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team.

Rasheed Walker

Projected to be the top left tackle available in free agency, but expected to command a contract worth around $20 million per year, likely pricing him out of the Cowboys' range.

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What they’re saying

“A question that needs answering, and pronto, is who the Dallas Cowboys view as their starting left tackle going forward.”

— Patrik Walker (DallasCowboys.com)

The takeaway

The Cowboys face a challenging offseason in finding a long-term solution at left tackle, with limited high-quality options available in free agency. Their ability to address this critical position will be crucial in protecting Dak Prescott and maintaining a strong offensive line.