Cowboys designate G Tyler Smith for return to practice

The Cowboys took a step toward getting their offensive line back to full strength Monday, designating All-Pro left guard Tyler Smith for return to practice, per Adam Schefter.

The designation opens a 21-day window for Smith, who has been sidelined with a thumb injury that required surgery. The team is aiming to have him make his season debut Thursday night against the Buccaneers, per the Dallas beat, which would be a significant boost to a line that has been reshuffling in his absence.

Smith is the anchor of the Cowboys' interior, and his return would stabilize the left side of the line and give the offense its preferred front back together. Dallas has managed without him, but getting a player of his caliber back for a prime-time divisional-style matchup changes the protection picture.

How quickly Smith ramps up over the next few days will determine whether he is ready for Thursday or whether the team holds him to a later return. The 21-day window gives Dallas flexibility, but the early indication is that a Week 5 return is the goal.