Tyler Guyton: The Ascendant Star of the Dallas Cowboys’ Offensive Line
As the dust settles from the latest NFL draft, all eyes in Dallas have turned toward Tyler Guyton, the Cowboys' first-round rookie left tackle. Selected 29th overall, Guyton's entry into the professional arena has been marked by a seamless transition and a burgeoning reputation for intelligence and unyielding confidence. His work on and off the field is already carving out a significant role for him on the team.
Guyton's journey to the NFL began at the University of Oklahoma, where he made a name for himself starting 13 of his 14 collegiate games, albeit on the right side of the line. This transition to left tackle has been nothing short of impressive during the Cowboys' training camp, where he has displayed exceptional skill and versatility.
Cowboys' quarterback Dak Prescott has been more than impressed by Guyton’s quick adjustment to the team’s playbook and culture. Reflecting on a team jeopardy night, Prescott said, "The dude jumped up there and spelled it as fast without any hesitation as I have ever seen. Still mind blown to be honest with you."
Head coach Mike McCarthy also noted Guyton’s promising start. “I thought he had some nice reps against Micah,” McCarthy remarked, referencing star linebacker Micah Parsons. Their practice battles, intense and educational, have been a proving ground for Guyton’s burgeoning talent.
Guyton's exceptional physical attributes have helped him make an immediate impact. Standing at 6-7 and weighing 330 pounds, his blend of size and agility is rare. His fellow lineman, Tyler Smith, has been quick to praise him. "It’s not very often that you find a human being who measures how he does, 6-7, 330 and has light feet and can just move and just bully dudes,” Smith said. “The sky truly is the limit for him and his development.”
The two Tylers, both hailing from Texas, have formed a quick bond with Smith acting as a mentor of sorts. Guyton acknowledges Smith's influence, saying, "He's helped me out a lot. He's like a big brother to me." This camaraderie is reflective of a team dynamic that nurtures rookie talent and fosters growth and resilience.
Despite his promising start, Guyton has not been free from setbacks. An illness caused him to miss three consecutive practices, and upon his return, he participated in a limited capacity. "I’m feeling better, for sure. I'm just under the weather, working my way back now," Guyton reported.
His indomitable spirit was on full display when he performed “Mary Jane” by Rick James during a rookie karaoke session. “It's a song that everybody knows is groovy and that would work,” Guyton shared, showcasing his confident and personable nature off the field as well.
The Cowboys are not just preparing Guyton for the season but are also gearing up for joint practices with the Los Angeles Rams. These practices are expected to further evaluate and enhance Guyton’s adaptability and skills in real-time scenarios.
Prescott has clear advice for the young lineman on stepping into the considerable shoes of his predecessor, Tyron Smith. "He has to be Tyler Guyton. Doesn’t really matter who played here before him... At the end of the day, you just need to be yourself and the best version of yourself," Prescott emphasized.
This focus on authenticity and self-improvement seems well-suited to Guyton's character. His intelligence, marked confidence, and physical prowess make him a standout addition to the Cowboys' roster. The rigorous training sessions, under the watchful eyes of veterans and coaches, are molding a player with significant potential.
As Dallas anticipates the beginning of the new NFL season, the buzz around Tyler Guyton continues to grow. His interactions and performances suggest a lineman ready not just to fill a role but to create a legacy of his own. With the mentorship of Tyler Smith and the support of team leaders like Dak Prescott, Guyton is positioned to become a cornerstone of the Cowboys' offensive line.