The Dallas Cowboys are making a key roster move ahead of the regular season, signing offensive lineman Nick Leverett to the active roster from the practice squad.
This promotion comes in direct response to the injury sustained by All-Pro left guard Tyler Smith, who is expected to miss at least four weeks in the regular season.
Also Read: Cowboys suffer major blow as left guard Tyler Smith set to miss 4 to 6 weeks
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed that Smith is scheduled to undergo thumb surgery and will be sidelined for four to six weeks. With Smith placed on injured reserve, the Cowboys needed to bolster their interior offensive line depth, and Leverett is the man they trust to fill that role.
What's New
A veteran presence with starting experience
Leverett is far from a raw rookie. The 29-year-old offensive lineman stands at 6’3″ and weighs 310 pounds, bringing five years of NFL experience to the table. He has appeared in 23 regular-season games throughout his career, making 11 starts, per Statmuse’s data.
His most significant workload came in 2022 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he logged 760 offensive snaps and started 10 games protecting Tom Brady. Pro Football Focus has ranked him 36th out of 87 qualified guards that season, proving he can hold his own as a reliable starter.
source on Google Go here and check the box
next to Cowboys.news
When stationed at his natural guard position, Leverett is a solid mid-60s graded blocker. His efficiency metrics remain highly stable, as he maintains a career 3.1% allowed pressure rate at guard. He plays with a stable base and consistent hand placement, making him a dependable asset in pass protection.
Nick Leverett’s versatility fits the Cowboys’ needs
Beyond his guard pedigree, Leverett offers valuable flexibility across the interior offensive line. He spent the preseason playing both guard and center for the Cowboys, showcasing his ability to fill multiple roles.
Leverett possesses extensive, proven game experience across all interior positions and can jump into a live game at left guard, right guard, or center without requiring massive schematic adjustments.
He is also highly regarded for his high football IQ and communication skills. Leverett excels at identifying defensive line twists, calling out late blitzers, and seamlessly orchestrating interior line-blocking adjustments.
Quite a tough road ahead for Dallas
With T.J. Bass expected to step in as the new starter at left guard, Leverett will serve as the primary backup interior lineman on gameday. His veteran experience and proven track record provide the Cowboys with a steady safety net during Smith’s absence.
While losing a three-time Pro Bowler is undoubtedly a tough blow for the franchise, Dallas has moved quickly to ensure the offensive line remains fortified. Leverett’s ability to step in and perform at a high level gives the Cowboys confidence that they can weather the storm until their All-Pro guard returns to the lineup.
