(Editor’s Note: Time to check the mail! The DallasCowboys.com staff writers answer your questions here in ‘Mailbag’ presented by Miller Lite.)

Which position do you think is more important on the offensive line, left guard or left tackle? I realize left tackle protects Dak Prescott’s blind side, but I feel guard is more important for the running game, which will then help the passing game. Given that, Tyler Smith is great at either position, but I think he is more needed at guard. What is your opinion? – David Farina/Trenton, NJ

Nick: Well, let’s address all of these questions and statements. From the top, I’ll say that left tackle is considered more important than left tackles. Just look at recent NFL Drafts and find me how many guards go in the Top 5 vs. offensive tackles. Now, in this case, there is a strong need to have a great interior O-line because of the way Dak Prescott operates the offense. It’s built on play-action, which means a strong running game is a must.

Now getting to the topic of Tyler Smith. You said that he “is great at either position.” Hmm, do we really know that? We know he’s an All-Pro guard but is he great at tackle? He was good as a rookie and not too bad last season when he filled in. My gut instinct is that Tyler Smith is smart enough to get himself ready to play either position and he’d be among the best at either spot. But I don’t know if he’ll be an elite tackle like he is at guard.

And there’s no shame in that. Larry Allen, Nate Newton and Zack Martin were all elite guards who played tackle, but just better inside. And that’s where Tyler Smith is in my opinion.

Personally, I’d keep him at guard with the game-day option that he could slide out to tackle if needed but I think this team has something brewing inside Tyler Booker, Tyler Smith and Cooper Beebe at center. I wouldn’t want to mess that up. I’m not saying there isn’t an issue at left tackle because that hasn’t been solidified and I’d even entertain taking a tackle at No. 12 if he’s the best one on the board. But as far as the interior goes, I think you’ve got Tyler Smith at his best position.