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Tyler Smith kicks off Cowboys training camp with simple yet telling message about inevitable negotiations to stay in Dallas
Chris Jones-Imagn Images

Dallas Cowboys left guard Tyler Smith is entering the most important year of his career for more than one reason. Not only is he expected to make another jump after back-to-back Pro Bowl seasons, but with Zack Martin enjoying retirement, he's now seen as the leader of the offensive line. 

Additionally, he could be in line for a massive contract extension. Recently, Smith ranked No. 2 among NFL interior offensive linemen per league coaches, executives, and scouts. Kansas City Chiefs' Trey Smith—who ranked 4th on the same list—recently signed a four-year deal worth $94 million

Though focus remains on Micah Parsons for the Cowboys front office, Smith knows it's his turn to sit at the negotiating table very soon. However, on Sunday, he sent a simple yet telling message regarding his contract situation: He isn't even thinking about it right now. 

Tyler Smith dismisses contract questions after reporting to training camp

After arriving at Oxnard, California on Sunday, Smith talked to reporters and fielded questions about potentially starting the conversation with the team ahead of the 2025 regular season.

“That’s not up to me," Smith told reporters via Joe Hoyt from Dallas Morning News. "I can only control what I can control and that’s coming in and working.”

Per Patrik Walker, Smith added: "Ultimately, we’re gonna play the Eagles in Week 1. That’s where my head is.”

That's what you want to hear from a player that is being asked to emerge as the next Zack Martin or Tyron Smith. The leader of an offensive line expected to set the tone for the entire offense. In that way, Tyler is doing more than just talking about controlling what he can. He's also setting the bar high for a Cowboys team projected by oddsmakers to have a losing record

"Super Bowl champions," Smith said when asked for his expectations for the team. "That’s always the expectation. I think it is a realistic goal.”

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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