What happened: A lingering left-thumb ligament injury resisted efforts to manage it through camp. His injured-reserve designation will keep him out for at least the opening four games.
Why it matters: The lineup loses an All-Pro left guard before the season opener. His replacement has 10 career starts, including five last season.
By the numbers: Smith played 16 games in each of the past two seasons after appearing in 14 in 2023. He has never played fewer than 14 games in a season.
What to watch: Week 5 is the earliest possible return, pending his recovery after surgery.