Home / Sports / Prescott Confident in Backup Ahead of Opener
Prescott Confident in Backup Ahead of Opener
12 Sep
Summary
- Tyler Smith undergoes surgery, Malik Davis suffers hip injury.
- Dak Prescott expresses full faith in backup guard T.J. Bass.
- Bass has 10 career starts and zero holding penalties in 8 recent starts.
The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for their regular season opener against the New York Giants on Sunday, September 13, 2026, but have suffered significant roster setbacks. All-Pro guard Tyler Smith has been placed on injured reserve following thumb surgery. Additionally, backup running back Malik Davis is likely to miss extended time due to a serious hip injury.
These injuries necessitate backup players stepping into larger roles, including offensive lineman T.J. Bass. Quarterback Dak Prescott has publicly backed Bass, expressing confidence in his ability to fill the void left by Smith. Prescott highlighted Bass's professionalism and consistent performance in his previous starts.
Bass, who has appeared in 48 games and made 10 starts for the Cowboys, has demonstrated remarkable discipline, with no holding penalties in his last eight starts over the past two seasons. The team also reportedly declined trade offers for Bass during the offseason, underscoring his value. Bass will have an immediate opportunity to prove his readiness against the Giants' formidable defensive front.
