Dallas Cowboys OT Tyron Smith battling ailments, sits out practice

Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowl left tackle Tyron Smith sat out Thursday with groin and back issues.

After missing practice on consecutive days, Smith's availability is in question for the Cowboys (5-4) in Sunday's home game versus the NFC East-leading Philadelphia Eagles (8-1).

Smith's absence was felt during last Sunday's 27-7 loss to the Atlanta Falcons, as Dak Prescott was sacked eight times -- including on six occasions by defensive end Adrian Clayborn.

Offensive linemen Chaz Green and Byron Bell were tasked with attempting to keep Clayborn at bay last week.

Green lost his starting spot at left guard after three games this season.

Should Bell get the start, it will be his first at left tackle since suiting up for the Tennessee Titans in their 2015 season finale.