Nate Thomas isn’t a household name, backups in general usually aren’t. Despite the lack of name recognition, the second-year offensive tackle has been one of the more pleasant surprises this year and has proved his worth when called upon.

On Thanksgiving in Week 13 against the Kansas City Chiefs, he filled in at left tackle as Tyler Guyton’s injury replacement. The fact no one seemed to notice the swap should tell you all you need to know about how Nate Thomas performed. It was as if there was no drop off in play at all.

To date, Thomas has played a total of 199 offensive snaps for the Cowboys and has started twice so far this season. He’s played 176 of the snaps at left tackle and 23 at right tackle, committing only two penalties and surrendering just one QB sack according to Pro Football Focus. As an injury fill-in and spot starter, he’s been invaluable.

Thinking back to just a few years ago when Tyron Smith was still holding down the starting job at left tackle, the importance of a dependable swing tackle was undeniable. It was almost a given he would miss a few games each year due to injuries, making the swing tackle position all the more important. To have had a player with Thomas’ ability would’ve done wonders then, but at least Dallas has him now to step in when needed.

Some of Thomas’ success can be accredited to Klayton Adams and Conor Riley. Adams currently holds the offensive coordinator title with the Cowboys this year, but is a well-regarded offensive line coach around the league as well. Riley, on the other hand, came from the collegiate ranks, where he too was a well-respected offensive line coach.

One, or possibly both, of them identified Nate Thomas’ best position as an offensive tackle, rather than inside guard where the previous coaching staff had him playing. Once No. 71 starting to settle into his more natural position he started to turn heads in training camp and from there locked down the swing tackle job this year.

To be able to step in at a moments notice at either LT or RT has already proved invaluable this season. There is been little to no drop off when he’s been forced to start or fill in and that’s a huge comfort considering the alternative. He’s played so well in fact, it wouldn’t be all that surprising if he competes for a starting job in the not-too-distant future.

The seventh-round pick (233 overall) last year in 2024 is looking like another late-round gem for the Cowboys. His future is looking pretty bright in Dallas and the organization is better for it. Whether he continues to serve as the swing tackle or eventually earns a starting job, Nate Thomas has an important role to play for the foreseeable future.