Tyron Smith, an experienced offensive tackle who spent 13 years with the Dallas Cowboys, parted company with the team this summer. Smith decided to sign with the New York Jets last week, where in 2024 he will be an important pass protector for Aaron Rodgers.

Eight-time Pro Bowler and two-time First Team All-Pro Smith has been a member of the Cowboys since he was selected in the first round of the 2011 draft. On Monday, he posted on Instagram to thank the team.

“It’s true that thirteen years is a long time to summarize in a little letter to hundreds of people who have contributed to my unforgettable Dallas experience. In part of his speech, Smith stated, “It’s been a long and wild trip filled with plenty of ups and downs, but Cowboy Nation, you have been there through it all.”

Smith made it plain that Dallas and Cowboys Nation will always have a special place in his heart, even if he is embarking on the next phase of his career.

Over the previous 13 seasons, the 33-year-old participated in 161 games for Dallas and was selected to seven straight Pro Bowls from 2013 to 2019. But during the last few years, injuries have slowed him down. Smith has only participated in 30 games since 2020, two of which were in 2022 and four in 2023.