How the Dallas Cowboys’ Offensive Line Is Keeping the Bar High Amid Zack Martin’s Holdout

Despite Dallas Cowboys All-Pro guard Zack Martin still holding out, the rest of the offensive line is holding things down at camp.

This line has faced plenty of adversity, but now is the time for them to return stronger than before; whether it’s the player looking to take a second-year jump or coming back from a season-ending knee injury, there is more to prove.

Tyler Smith Helping Dallas Cowboys Offensive Line During Zack Martin’s Holdout

Tyler Smith was one of the Cowboys’ most underrated rookies last season. His ability to adapt and adjust to playing both guard and tackle helped create the versatility the line needed, especially after multiple injuries occurred.

Smith said on Thursday that Martin texted the group to “set the tone” and that he would “be there soon.” Meanwhile, they are all in full support of Martin’s decision during this time.

He also said that in Martin’s absence, everyone has stepped up to keep the standards high, including Tyron Smith, the longest-standing veteran with the Cowboys.

Tyler Smith described that last season’s quick adjustments were a “pre-curser” to his current work. He says he has been playing in the guard position for the first few days of camp.

But overall, this camp has fewer growing pains and more of a chance to refine and tighten things up for him compared to his rookie season.

Terence Steele Picking Up Where He Left Off Before Season-Ending Knee Injury

Terence Steele was cleared for camp after repairing a torn ACL and MCL on his left knee that he suffered back in December.

He talked exclusively with PFN, giving insight into his current mindset, the asset of being a versatile line, and what his focus will be on now that he is medically cleared to play again.

Steele, who has been projected to play right tackle at the start of the season, talked about the versatility within the line saying “continuity is huge” and having the ability not to miss a step no matter who is in the line is essential.

As for how he feels post-knee surgery, he says that now that he is back on the field, the sky is the limit.

“I feel great. The knee is feeling better than ever. Conditioning is good, and I’m just glad to be out here with my teammates,” said Steele.

The biggest goal for Steele was to be available when the season started again to pick up right where he left off ahead of the injury, saying it was the best season he had played yet, but that the best has yet to come.

“This is my first really big injury ever playing football, so I didn’t want to let it make me miss time. So I made a big effort in the offseason to return as quick as I could and make sure my knee came back stronger than ever,” said Steele.

Advice that Steele has gotten from other players who have had season-ending injuries is that the return is all a mental game. In addition, when the time comes to return, do not think about it and focus on playing at full speed.