Cowboys activate Tyler Smith from IR to play tonight vs. Buccaneers

The Dallas Cowboys' offensive line gets its anchor back for tonight: the team is activating All-Pro guard Tyler Smith from injured reserve to play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Smith underwent thumb surgery just before the season with the goal of returning as soon as possible. After participating in a full practice Wednesday, he has been cleared to make his season debut in Thursday night's game. The activation is a notable boost for a Dallas line that has been shuffling pieces while its star guard recovered.

Smith's return steadies the interior in a prime-time spot for the Cowboys, giving the offense its most reliable blocker back as Dallas looks to get on track against a Tampa Bay defense. His status had been listed as questionable after Wednesday's full session, and the move confirms he will be in the lineup rather than playing the week-to-week situation out.