In a somber development for the New York Jets, veteran left tackle Tyron Smith has been placed on injured reserve, likely ending his season and possibly his illustrious NFL career. The 33-year-old Smith, who signed with the Jets this offseason after 13 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, suffered a neck injury in the team’s Week 10 loss to the Arizona Cardinals.
Injury Casts Doubt on Smith’s Future
While the exact nature of Smith’s neck injury has not been disclosed, the move to IR indicates it is significant enough to sideline him for an extended period. At his age and with his extensive injury history, this latest setback raises questions about whether the 8-time Pro Bowler will ever suit up again.
According to a source close to the situation, there is “virtually no chance” Smith returns this season, even if the Jets reach the playoffs. The source added that given the severity of the injury and Smith’s age, retirement is a very real possibility.
Jets’ Hopes Dashed
The Jets signed Smith to a one-year, $6.5 million contract in March, hoping the veteran could bolster their offensive line and protect future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers. However, Smith struggled to recapture his Pro Bowl form, committing an uncharacteristically high number of penalties and allowing six sacks through nine games before the injury.
Despite putting Smith on a strict practice regimen to preserve his health, the Jets’ best laid plans have gone awry. Now, they turn to rookie first-round pick Olu Fashanu to man the left tackle spot for the remainder of the season.
A Decorated Career
If this is indeed the end for Tyron Smith, he will go down as one of the premier offensive linemen of his generation. The Cowboys’ first-round pick in 2011 out of USC, Smith immediately became a starter and was named to eight Pro Bowls and two All-Pro first teams during his tenure in Dallas.
“As long as it takes, honestly. I keep going until I can’t go no more.”
– Tyron Smith on how long he wanted to keep playing, during Jets training camp
In addition to his individual accolades, Smith was a key cog on some of the NFL’s best offensive lines during his prime. He paved the way for DeMarco Murray’s 1,845-yard rushing season in 2014 and was instrumental in the development of quarterbacks Tony Romo and Dak Prescott.
Hall of Fame Chances
With his elite production and longevity, Smith will undoubtedly garner Hall of Fame consideration when eligible. While offensive linemen can often be overlooked, Smith’s resume stacks up favorably compared to recent inductees:
- 8 Pro Bowl selections (T-5th among OL in the 2010s)
- 2 first-team All-Pro selections
- Named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 2010s
While the final chapter of Smith’s career may be written, his impact and excellence over 13 seasons cement his legacy as one of the best to play his position. As he faces this latest crossroads, one thing is certain – Tyron Smith will be remembered as a dominant force and consummate professional, respected by teammates and opponents alike.
The Jets, meanwhile, must now regroup and move forward without their prized free agent acquisition. In a season that began with such promise, Smith’s injury is yet another cruel twist of fate for a franchise so desperate to return to relevancy.
