The Dallas Cowboys and guard Tyler Smith have agreed to a four-year, $96 million contract extension, making him the NFL’s highest-paid guard and securing his place on the team beyond his rookie deal.
Cowboys guard Rob Jones suffered a broken neck during training camp, likely sidelining him for 2-3 months, which impacts the team's offensive line depth as Tyler Booker is expected to start at right guard.
Trey Smith signed a four-year, $94 million contract with the Kansas City Chiefs, making him the highest-paid guard in NFL history with an average of $23.5 million per year, featuring significant guarantees and a shorter commitment compared to other players.
Trevor Penning, originally drafted as a tackle by the Saints, has been moved to left guard where he believes his skills are better suited, especially in the run game, and sees this change as beneficial for his performance and future prospects.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have reached a one-year agreement with free agent guard Sua Opeta, following the departure of Aaron Stinnie to the Giants. Opeta, who previously played for the Eagles, is set to compete with Ben Bredeson for the left guard position.
The Carolina Panthers have agreed to a four-year, $53 million deal with guard Damien Lewis, including $26.2 million guaranteed, making him the second guard acquisition of the day after finalizing a five-year, $100 million deal with former Miami Dolphins guard Robert Hunt. Lewis, a former member of the Seattle Seahawks, ranked 41st among all guards in pass block win rate last season and has started 61 of a possible 67 regular-season games over his career.
The Los Angeles Rams have agreed to re-sign guard Kevin Dotson to a three-year, $48 million deal with $32 million guaranteed, making him one of the top 10 highest-paid guards in the league. Dotson, who was acquired from the Steelers last season, played a key role in stabilizing the Rams' offensive line and is now signed through 2026. His contract sets a benchmark for the upcoming guard market, as the Rams aim to strengthen their interior offensive line for the upcoming season.
A female guard, Ruth Shmylo, is on trial for allegedly having a five-month relationship with a manipulative drug dealer inmate, Harri Pullen, which included "secret phone sex." After Shmylo was sacked from HMP Parc, Pullen's behavior became threatening towards staff, leading to concerns about the potential risk to staff safety. Pullen, described as a dominating character within the prison system and a member of an organized crime group, was eventually moved to HMP Manchester. Shmylo denies misconduct in a public office.
Denver Broncos guard Quinn Meinerz will return to Denver after spending a night in a Los Angeles hospital due to an elevated heart rate during the team's win over the Los Angeles Chargers. Meinerz had experienced chest tightness and an elevated heart rate late in the first half, prompting medical attention. However, he is said to be feeling better and the hospitalization was largely precautionary. Offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi praised Meinerz's performance this season, highlighting his physical style and strong blocking abilities. Luke Wattenberg filled in for Meinerz during the game and performed well.
A 70-year-old guard was taken hostage by prisoners on the fourth floor of the Justice Center in downtown St. Louis. The guard, who was not armed, was later seen being taken away on a stretcher. The detainees reportedly demanded pizza and chicken patties in exchange for the guard's release. Further details are currently unknown.
Los Angeles Rams left tackle Joe Noteboom has been taking practice reps at right guard, indicating a potential position change. Coach Sean McVay stated that Noteboom is one of their better players and they want to explore the best way to utilize his versatility. Noteboom is competing for the right guard position, but McVay emphasized the importance of finding the best five players for the offensive line. The Rams' offensive line struggled in 2022, highlighting the need for a competent interior line.
The Denver Broncos have signed defensive tackle Forrest Merrill and designated guard Yasir Durant as waived/injured. Merrill, who previously played for the Chargers, recorded four tackles in four games last season. Durant joined the Broncos recently but left practice due to injury.
New Orleans Saints guard Trai Turner is out for the season due to a torn quadriceps, according to a source. Turner, who recently signed with the team, was expected to compete for a spot on the roster. The 30-year-old has previously played for the Carolina Panthers, Washington Commanders, Los Angeles Chargers, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Atlanta Falcons traded up to select Matthew Bergeron in the 2023 NFL Draft, despite already having depth at tackle. However, the Falcons see potential in Bergeron's position flexibility and believe he could compete for the left guard position, which has been in flux for years. Bergeron's nastiness and skillset could make him a valuable addition to the Falcons' offensive line, potentially as a zone-blocking guard.
The Buffalo Bills have selected O'Cyrus Torrence, a Florida offensive lineman, in the second round of the 2023 NFL draft. Torrence, who is listed at 6-foot-5, 347 pounds, is coming off of back-to-back strong seasons and further solidifies the interior of the Bills offensive line. He allowed no sacks, one quarterback hit, and four quarterback hurries on 395 pass-blocking reps when protecting Anthony Richardson.