While the Cowboys weren't exactly quiet during free agency this spring, there is still plenty of work to do for this team that finished 7-9-1 in 2025.
Not only did they add some key players in free agency and via trades, but they also re-signed some of the core depth as well.
Still, there are other guys on this team that must take that next step in order for the Cowboys to be successful in 2026.
Today, we'll continue the Next Man Up series with offensive lineman Nate Thomas.
- Name: Nate Thomas
- Position: Offensive Tackle
- Experience: 3rd Year
- Games Played/Starts: 17 / 4
- Years Left on Contract: 2
- How Acquired: 2024 7th-round pick 233rd-overall (Louisiana)
- Key Stat: Cowboys were 2-0 in Thomas' first two career starts at left tackle.
The Past: Drafted with an extensive injury history, Thomas possessed the athletic ability of a Day 2 (second- or third-round) pick, but too many medical concerns caused him to slide deep into the draft. Still, the Cowboys took a chance on him, and Thomas spent the entire 2024 season on injured reserve. This past season, he was healthy enough to play in all 17 games, including four starts.
He received his first opportunity at left tackle in a Week 5 matchup against the Jets, when the Cowboys were down three starters. Even then, the offense exploded for 416 total yards, including 180 rushing yards. The Cowboys followed that performance with another win, as Thomas started at left tackle on Thanksgiving Day against the Chiefs. Overall, the team went 2–2 in the four games Thomas started at left tackle, but he also logged snaps on the right side, showcasing his versatility.
The Present: As many problems as the Cowboys have on defense, it's not as if they're completely settled at every offensive position. One area with the most question marks—both this season and in the near future—is the tackle spot. The Cowboys drafted Tyler Guyton to play left tackle, and Terence Steele is currently the starter on the right side. Still, the competition remains wide open, which is where Thomas factors in. He pushed both Steele and Guyton at times last season, and with another year of development and a healthy offseason, there's a real chance Thomas could be battling for a starting job once again. At the very least, he appears to have the inside track to be the game-day swing tackle.
The Future: It's important not to forget why the Cowboys drafted Thomas in the first place. While they were fully aware of his injury history, they believed that when healthy, he has the talent to be an NFL starter. The Cowboys continue to develop Thomas, and there's a legitimate chance he could eventually become one of their starting tackles—on either side. Thomas still has two years remaining on his contract, and by that time, clarity should emerge regarding Guyton's development, Steele's future, and any additional tackles added through free agency or the draft. Still, the Cowboys are clearly not closing the door on Thomas being firmly in the mix.
