Former Cowboys tackle Tyron Smith bids farewell to Dallas

The Dallas Cowboys selected Tyron Smith with the No. 9 overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft out of USC. And following 13 seasons with franchise, the 2024 season will mark the first of his professional career not suiting up for America’s Team.

After reports surfaced at the beginning of the month that Smith would not return to Dallas next season ahead of free agency, things were made official last Friday. When NFL insider Adam Schefer reported that Smith would be signing a one-year contract with the New York Jets that could be worth up to $20 million after incentives.

On Monday Smith penned an emotional farewell to Dallas following his decision to part ways with the Cowboys, which can be seen below.

Former Cowboys LT Tyron Smith bid farewell today to Dallas in an Instagram post. “Part of my heart will forever be left in Texas. Until we meet again…”

Smith recently joined Jets on a one-year, incentive-laden contract. pic.twitter.com/BuTKDfXPSk

— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) March 18, 2024

“Cowboy Nation, Humbly, I don’t even know where to begin… Thirteen years sure is a long time to sum up in one short letter to thousands of people who have made my time in Dallas so memorable. It’s been a long and wild ride filled with plenty of ups and downs but Cowboy Nation, you all have been there through it all,” Smith wrote.

Smith continued to speak about his growth from a 20-year-old rookie to the veteran he is today, and how much the relationships and the time spend as a Dallas Cowboy were special to him. Eventually thanking the Jones family and the Cowboy fans for their role in his career.

“To the Jones family, thank for the amazing opportunity to play for the Cowboys and the life changing experience that my family and I will forever be grateful for,” Smith continued. “I will never forget the feeling of running out of the tunnel at AT&T Stadium or the roar of the crowd after a big play.”

“Cowboy Nation – thank you for everything. While I’m excited for this next chapter of my football career, part of my heart will forever be left in Texas. Until we meet again…”

Smith started and played in 161 games during his career with the Cowboys, oftentimes regarded as one of the best offensive lineman across the NFL throughout his tenure in Dallas. Earning eight Pro Bowl selections, two First-Team All-Pro selections, and three Second-Team All-Pro nods with his most recent coming just last season at the age of 33. Also earning a spot on the NFL’s 2010s All-Decade Team.

There’s no doubt that Smith will be missed in the Cowboys’ organization, as he’ll now take his talents from the Big D to the Big Apple for his 14th season in the league.