Lack of free agency interest for former USC standout could be signaling the worst case scenario and potential end to a HOF career

What an NFL career it has been for All-Pro offensive tackle Tyron Smith. He went from toolsy developmental right tackle at USC to one of the best blindside protectors in his era. Smith was originally the ninth overall selection in the 2011 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys, a gamble at the time that ended up paying off in a big way.

Smith came to the USC Trojans as a decorated five-star recruit out of Rancho Verde in Moreno Valley, California. After putting on solid weight on his frame during the 2008 season, Smith proceeded to start the next two seasons at right tackle. Along with Trojans starting left tackle Matt Kalil, the duo formed arguably the best in all of college football.

In total, Smith spent 13 seasons with the Cowboys, and started all 161 games that he played in. During that stretch, Smith was selected as a Pro Bowler eight separate times. Smith was also an All-Pro twice, and was able to earn a spot on the HOF All-2010s team. Along with Trent Williams, there was a great debate during the stretch about who was the best left tackle in the league.

After the 2023 season, we saw a big chance for Smith. He left Dallas and ended up signing with the New York Jets. The 6-5, 320-pound behemoth started in ten football games for the Jets, and played at a good overall level. He was, however, unable to finish the season while dealing with a neck injury.

That neck injury is clouding the future for Smith, and his NFL free agency interest. Add in the fact that he is already 34 years old, and the future for Smith becomes even cloudier. Smith’s performance has started to trend downward, and retirement is surely on the horizon. We may have seen the last of Smith when all is said and done.

Finding quality offensive line play in the NFL is extremely difficult right now. There’s a chance that could raise the demand for Smith at some point. As of now, that market just doesn’t exist. Only time, and an injury update, will determine if we see the talented offensive tackle in 2025.