Jets just paved path for Cowboys' Tyron Smith reunion in 2025

We're all waiting to learn what the Dallas Cowboys do with their first-round pick. Will they stay put at No. 24 and take the best offensive linemen? Or will they trade back to acquire an extra day two pick being that they're already without a fourth-round pick and don't pick on day three until late in the fifth round?

The anticipation -- and anxiety -- are building. In the meantime, players are flying off the board so there's plenty to react to. For instance, Dan Quinn's Commanders got their quarterback of the future in LSU's Jayden Daniels. Additionally, the Giants nabbed LSU receiver Malik Nabers with the No. 6 pick.

Another potential Cowboys takeaway? The Jets going somewhat safe with their first-round pick. After moving back one spot to pick No. 11, New York selected Penn State tackle Olu Fashanu even though Georgia tight end Brock Bowers was on the board.

Taking Fashanu is smart given that you can't rely on Tyron Smith to stay healthy. However, the selection also confirms that the Jets won't be bringing Smith back in 2025. This sets the stage for Dallas to reunite with its longtime left tackle next offseason.

Jets drafting Olu Fashanu sets stage for Cowboys' Tyron Smith reunion

Is a Tyron Smith reunion likely? That's impossible to project at this stage. Entering his age-34 campaign, Smith could very well retire after the 2024 season. Assuming he wants to keep playing, though, it stands to reason a return to Dallas will pique his interest.

After all, Smith never wanted to leave to begin with. The Cowboys seemingly low-balled him when they met after the season and he swiftly signed an incentive-laden deal with the Jets. While Smith's contract has a max value of $20 million, he only got $6.5 million guaranteed.

The deal has up to $5.75 million in its first play-time incentive and up to $6.25 million in its second play-time incentive. He could earn as much as $250,000 per playoff win and $500,000 if he makes the Pro Bowl. Given his injury history, Smith will be hard-pressed to earn the $20 million.

It's impossible to guess what Jerry Jones wants, but he's as cheap as they come. Even if the Cowboys come away from the draft with a new tackle, signing Smith for depth purposes and to mentor what is sure to be a young offensive line would be smart business.

Anything can happen in a year, but the door has crept open for Smith to return to Dallas in 2025 thanks to the Jets' first-round pick.

More Cowboys coverage