The New York Jets have reached an agreement with former Dallas Cowboys left tackle Tyron Smith, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press. Friday night’s move marks the final step in a comprehensive overhaul of the Jets’ offensive line, an offseason focus led by general manager Joe Douglas.
The deal was first reported by NFL Network, the person told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity pending the team’s official announcement.
According to ESPN, the deal is for one year and is expected to earn him up to $20 million, including performance incentives.
Early Friday morning, the Jets also secured the return of defensive lineman Solomon Thomas, another person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press. Smith, 33, a two-time All-Pro and eight-time Pro Bowl selection, brought stability to a team that struggled with inconsistency and productivity issues last season.
Tasked with guarding quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ blind side, Smith will be joined by returning center Joe Tippman, right guard Ariya Berra-Tucker, recently acquired left guard John Simpson, who departed this week and was traded to Baltimore. – Teams up with right tackle Morgan Moses, acquired by the Ravens.
Despite playing in only 17 games over the past three seasons due to injuries, Smith showed his determination by starting 13 games last season and solidifying his status as a dominant force. The University of Southern California graduate spent his entire 13-year NFL career with the Cowboys after being selected No. 9 overall in the 2011 draft. Thomas, 28, returns for his third season with the Jets and has become a key part of the defensive line, emerging as a respected leader both on and off the field. The source, speaking to the AP on condition of anonymity, confirmed Thomas’ agreement to return to New York, as initially reported by SNY.
Notching a career-high five sacks last season while appearing in every game, Thomas continues to fortify a Jets defensive line headlined by Quinnen Williams, John Franklin-Myers, Jermaine Johnson, Micheal Clemons, Will McDonald, along with recent acquisitions Jason Kilar and Leki Fotu. Selected third overall by the San Francisco 49ers in the 2017 NFL draft, Thomas spent his first four seasons with the team before joining the Raiders for the 2021 campaign. His return to the Jets last offseason and subsequent re-signing last year underscore his valued presence on the squad.
With 15 career sacks, 45 quarterback hits, and a demonstrated commitment to community engagement through his nonprofit organization The Defensive Line, Thomas brings both on-field prowess and off-field leadership to the Jets.
