Tyler Guyton Shines as Rookie Left Tackle for Dallas Cowboys
In a league where rookies often struggle to make an immediate impact, Tyler Guyton stands out as an exception. Drafted 29th overall by the Dallas Cowboys, the first-round rookie left tackle has quickly adapted to the demanding NFL environment, demonstrating a blend of intelligence, confidence, and physical prowess both on and off the field.
Guyton's football journey began at the University of Oklahoma, where he played predominantly at right tackle, starting 13 of his 14 collegiate games. Yet, it didn’t take long for the Cowboys' coaching staff to recognize his potential at left tackle. During training camp, Guyton distinguished himself, even managing to stonewall star defensive end Micah Parsons during a padded practice. Head coach Mike McCarthy praised Guyton's performance, saying, "I thought he had some nice reps against Micah."
The transition to the Cowboys' system has been seamless for Guyton, thanks in part to his mental acuity. "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," quarterback Dak Prescott remarked, highlighting an episode during a team jeopardy night that underscored Guyton's quick thinking and sharp intellect.
Beyond his intelligence, Guyton's confidence sets him apart. Prescott elaborated, "His intelligence and confidence for sure. It's showing on the field, too. The guy has picked up everything we have thrown at him... He comes back with the same mindset and does win it that time."
However, Guyton's progress hasn’t been a solo endeavor. He has received crucial guidance from left guard Tyler Smith, a fellow Texan, whom Guyton regards as a mentor. "He's helped me out a lot. He's like a big brother to me," Guyton affirmed. Smith, in turn, has been impressed by Guyton’s physicality and potential. "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 observed. "The sky truly is the limit for him and his development."
Guyton's integration into the Cowboys' culture has extended beyond the football field. Participating in a rookie karaoke session, Guyton selected "Mary Jane" by Rick James, a choice he described as, "a song that everybody knows is groovy and that would work." That willingness to engage with his teammates in various settings has helped him build camaraderie and earn respect within the locker room.
Despite showing promise, Guyton has faced some hurdles. An illness led him to miss three consecutive practices, and even 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," he commented, reflecting his determination to rebound quickly.
Next on the Cowboys' schedule is a joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams, an opportunity for Guyton to further test his skills against different competition. This is particularly important as he steps into the large shoes of his predecessor, Tyron Smith. However, Prescott emphasized the importance of Guyton forging his own path. "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," the quarterback advised.
Defensive juggernaut Micah Parsons also had words of encouragement for Guyton. Reflecting on their practice battles, Parsons noted, "Of course it did. We're both getting each other better... Going up against him, even losing, helps me out."
Tyler Guyton's early days with the Dallas Cowboys suggest that he possesses the rare combination of talent, intellect, and character required to excel in the NFL. As the season unfolds, his performance will be closely watched, not just by Cowboys fans, but by the entire football community, anticipating the potential impact he could have on the offensive line.