Cowboys activate Tyler Smith from injured reserve ahead of tonight’s Buccaneers game

The Dallas Cowboys activated left guard Tyler Smith from injured reserve Thursday ahead of their home game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the team announced.

The All-Pro missed the first four games of the season after a training-camp thumb injury required surgery. Dallas opened his 21-day practice window Monday, leaving him a short week to prepare for his season debut.

The Cowboys said Smith had been medically cleared and would decide after practicing whether his thumb felt ready for game action. The team’s Thursday announcement said he will suit up against Tampa Bay.

Dallas waived running back Emari Demercado in the corresponding roster move. T.J. Bass had filled in at left guard during Smith’s absence.

“He’s ready to play,” owner and general manager Jerry Jones told 105.3 The Fan on Wednesday, according to the Cowboys’ report.

Dallas enters the Week 5 matchup at 2–2 after a 34–30 comeback win over Houston. Tampa Bay is 0–4. Kickoff at AT&T Stadium is set for 6:15 p.m. Mountain Time Thursday.