This offseason, the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Jets may trade offensive lineman.
Tyron Smith’s decision to join the green and white has left a hole in the trenches for America’s Team, according to Bill Barnwell of ESPN.
“[Laken] Tomlinson could come in at guard, where his stature would be a plus for a squad that failed to impress in short-yardage and goal-line scenarios a year ago, if Dallas wanted to shift 2022 first-round selection Tyler Smith from left guard to left tackle,” Barnwell clarified.
For Tomlinson, Barnwell said the Cowboys were the “best fit.” In an attempt to save money, Gang Green cut 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.
Tomlinson was originally signed to be a starter back in 2022, but if he were to return to NY this summer it would be as a backup.
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 member of an offensive line that was consistent, playing in 34 of the 34 games that were feasible.
Insider Curious About Tyron Smith – Jets Free Agency
Smith revealed during his chat with the media that the free agency sweepstakes came down to a return to Dallas or the Jets.
“The Jets got Tyron Smith for $6.5 million guaranteed. That’s such a low number any risk is worth the potential reward. But the fact 31 other teams were out/made no run at someone with Smith’s resume is puzzling or alarming, depending on if you’re glass half full vs empty. Can’t help but wonder if there’s something there. Time will tell,” Connor Hughes of SNY said on social media.
A fan accused the Jets of “bidding against themselves” which Hughes quickly responded to.
“They didn’t bid against themselves. They refuse to get played like that now — why Douglas is so set on his numbers. No Jets tax,” Hughes explained. “They felt they were writing a contract for the Cowboys to match. That’s why it’s structured the way it is — Joe wasn’t going to do someone else’s work for them. Everyone was stunned when he accepted. They never thought he would.”
Credit to Smith he said that the contract he signed is a sign of his track record with injuries and he thought it was a fair deal. It works out for everyone.
The Jets protected themselves if Smith got hurt and if he stays healthy he will be rewarded handsomely.
