A bad back can be a tricky thing. A star Cowboy is dealing with a bad back. That's why there's reason for concern in Dallas.​





Star offensive lineman Tyron Smith, a perennial pro bowler considered to be the best in the league at his position, has been held out of practice because of stiffness in his back, sources say.

Tyron Smith still dealing with stiffness in his back. He won't practice today. Might not practice tomorrow — Jon Machota (@jonmachota) August 9, 2017

Head coach Jason Garrett has gone on record saying the Cowboys are going to be cautious in regards to Smith's back, so as not to injure it any further.​​

Garrett said the Cowboys are going to be careful with Tyron Smith — Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) August 9, 2017

​​Worse still, he's expected to be shut down for an extended period of time.

The Cowboys are shutting down Tyron Smith for another extended stretch because of sore back, meaning he'll practice twice in 14-day stretch. — Brandon George (@DMN_George) August 9, 2017

That takes us right up to the start of the regular season. While Smith's knowledge of the playbook isn't a concern, the fact that he's dealt with this in the past is.





Smith, the ninth overall selection in the 2011 NFL Draft, has made four straight Pro Bowls and consistently grades out as one of the top offensive tackles in the entire league.





Smith's contributions are essential to the Cowboys' formidable running attack--they will certainly be hoping that he'll be back healthy as soon as possible.