Cowboys aim to replace eight-time Pro Bowler in new mock draft

The Dallas Cowboys are moving on from one of their best players this offseason and must find his replacement immediately. 

At the scouting combine, NFL Media's Ian Rapoport reported the Cowboys are expected to let left tackle Tyron Smith – an eight-time Pro Bowler – test free agency. 

Pro Football Focus gave Smith an 83.7 grade last season, the fourth-best at his position, but the 33-year-old has durability issues. Over the past three seasons, Smith has missed 33 games. He hasn't played a full season since 2015. 

"I don't think they're underestimating it," The Athletic's Jon Machota wrote of Smith's value. "He played well last season, but that even came after they adjusted his weekly work schedule to greatly reduce the chances of his suffering any type of setback in practice."

In his latest mock draft, CBS Sports' Will Brinson sees Dallas addressing that anticipated departure by selecting Oklahoma offensive lineman Tyler Guyton with the No. 24 overall pick.

"Tyron Smith is moving on after a decade plus in Dallas," writes Brinson. "So, the Cowboys will need to keep restocking the offensive line."

The Cowboys could also move Pro Bowler Tyler Smith to left tackle. The 22-year-old started at the position during his rookie season. However, that would create a hole at left guard. Drafting a left tackle makes more sense.

While Guyton is a raw prospect who only started in 14 games in four seasons split between TCU and Oklahoma, his potential could outweigh the inexperience.

"Guyton is oozing with upside, as he carries his frame extremely well and has incredible feet," ESPN's Field Yates notes of the 6-foot-8, 322-pounder. "He is green with just one full season as a starter, but the chance to eventually become a high-level left tackle is in play."

The Cowboys might have to take the flier. Protecting quarterback Dak Prescott is an imperative and Dallas needs a deep offensive line to accomplish this.