The Dallas Cowboys are experiencing a shift from a previously quiet offseason as they prepare for their first game week against the New York Giants. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer announced that Pro Bowl left guard Tyler Smith will be sidelined for at least four weeks due to thumb surgery, which is scheduled for Tuesday morning.
Despite this setback, Smith is expected to return and strengthen the Cowboys' offensive line later in the season. In the interim, T.J. Bass will take over his position, a move Schottenheimer supports, having retained Bass during the offseason.
Amid these developments, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones spoke on his radio show, revealing that the team has restructured several contracts to create additional salary cap space. This restructuring has freed up $19 million, positioning the Cowboys to potentially make a trade. Jones stated, "We're in play," regarding the possibility of adding to the roster, particularly on the defensive side.
Jones emphasized that defense is the area where a trade is most likely, despite the team's busy offseason that included hiring a new defensive coordinator, drafting two defenders in the first round, and acquiring four more likely starters.
The contract adjustments involved defensive tackle Kenny Clark, cornerback DaRon Bland, and tight end Jake Ferguson, which, while not altering their salaries, allow for greater flexibility in future salary caps.
While Jones did not confirm whether the recent contract changes were directly linked to plans for a defensive trade, he acknowledged the timing and the newly available cap space could be utilized for this year's team. He noted that the Cowboys now have approximately $33 million in cap space for 2026, which could facilitate a trade for high-profile players if they become available.
