New York Jets starting left tackle Tyron Smith enjoyed a scheduled off-day during Saturday's Green and White scrimmage, but the 33-year-old did not return to practice when the team reconvened on Monday.
Smith, who is on a maintenance plan aimed at maximizing his availability for game days, was sidelined with a lower body issue as the Jets kicked off their first preseason game week in Florham Park.
"He's dealing with a little bit of tightness, coming off of the weekend of work. He'll be back in practice tomorrow. We just wanted to take a little extra precaution with him," said fourth-year head coach Robert Saleh.
The Jets signed Smith in free agency amidst questions of whether or not the aging veteran could remain healthy over the long haul. He played in only 30 of a possible 67 regular season contests over his last four seasons with the Dallas Cowboys. Smith missed four games due to minor injuries in 2023, but this latest injury is apparently no reason for concern.
"This is just from his last practice. He should be back in tomorrow," said Saleh.
Smith last practiced on Friday and the team was off on Sunday.
When healthy, Smith has performed as a top-tier player at his position. The Jets are hoping that eight-time Pro Bowl selection can stabilize what was a problem spot in 2023. The 2011 first-round draft choice claimed he felt good when asked about his health status during the first week of training camp.
"Just gotta maintain it, stay healthy, stay in shape, so I could be here for my teammates," said Smith.
Thus far, his ability to do so is still to be determined.
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