A well-regarded publication recently identified eight-time Pro Bowler Tyron Smith as the top remaining free-agent offensive tackle, and he is expected to secure a new team soon.
Despite delivering another strong performance in the 2024 season, Tyron Smith remains unsigned. The veteran offensive tackle, who had spent his entire career with the Dallas Cowboys, joined the New York Jets for the 2024 season and continued to be a dependable starter. Although injuries sidelined him for part of the season, limiting him to 10 games, he still earned a 73.7 grade from Pro Football Focus—ranking 30th among tackles. In 592 snaps, he allowed only five sacks while blocking for quarterback Aaron Rodgers, known for extending plays.
Now navigating free agency for the second consecutive offseason, Smith is no longer the highly sought-after talent he once was during his Pro Bowl years. However, his recent game film demonstrates that he remains a valuable asset. Bleacher Report has named him the best available tackle in free agency. While he may not secure a deal until after the 2025 NFL Draft, teams like the New Orleans Saints, New England Patriots, and Kansas City Chiefs could benefit from his experience.
Potential Destinations for Tyron Smith
New Orleans Saints
Although the Saints are focused on their quarterback situation, Derek Carr is expected to return for at least one more season. While not an elite signal-caller, Carr can be effective with solid protection. However, his struggles under pressure could pose challenges, especially with the Saints’ inconsistent offensive line.
Tyron Smith could provide an immediate upgrade. The Saints selected Taliese Fuaga in the first round of the 2024 draft, but since he primarily played on the right side in college, they could consider shifting him back while placing Smith at left tackle. Alternatively, Smith might adapt to playing right tackle. Either option would strengthen the offensive line and improve Carr’s durability over a full 17-game season.
New England Patriots
The Patriots hold the fourth-overall pick and may draft an offensive tackle. However, if they opt for another position, such as cornerback Travis Hunter, they will need a reliable protector for quarterback Drake Maye. While they addressed right tackle by signing Morgan Moses, left tackle remains a weak spot with Vederian Lowe currently at the top of the depth chart.
Though Smith is past his prime, he would still be a significant improvement over Lowe. New England has already invested in supporting Maye by acquiring Moses and wide receiver Stefon Diggs. If they don’t draft a left tackle, Smith could serve as a solid short-term solution.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs made a surprising move by signing Jaylon Moore to a two-year, $30 million contract. Given that Moore has mostly been a backup, Kansas City may have overpaid due to a lack of options. Despite the investment, the team could still use additional reinforcement at tackle, particularly with lingering questions at right tackle.
Adding a veteran like Smith would provide much-needed stability for the Chiefs’ offensive line. Given his experience and reliability, he could serve as insurance in case Moore fails to meet expectations or if injuries arise throughout the season.
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