Tyler Guyton: The Cowboys' Next Big Thing at Left Tackle
Tyler Guyton’s arrival as the first-round rookie left tackle for the Dallas Cowboys has been nothing short of sensational. Selected 29th overall, Guyton's journey to the NFL has been highlighted by not just his physical attributes, but also his intelligence and confidence—traits that have set him apart both on and off the field.
Guyton’s quick adaptation to the Cowboys' system speaks volumes about his football acumen. Within no time, he has become a crucial part of the team’s dynamics. His participation in team activities, such as jeopardy night, not only reflects his camaraderie with teammates but also showcases his adaptability. Dak Prescott himself was impressed by Guyton's performance in the game, stating, "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."
Guyton's football journey began at the University of Oklahoma, where he started 13 of his 14 collegiate games at right tackle. His transition to left tackle during training camp has been seamless, displaying exceptional skill and poise. Head coach Mike McCarthy had nothing but praise, "I thought he had some nice reps against Micah."
Indeed, one of the standout moments during training camp was Guyton stonewalling Micah Parsons during a padded practice. Parsons, a formidable opponent, acknowledged the benefit of competing against Guyton, saying, "Of course it did. We're both getting each other better... Going up against him, even losing, helps me out."
The rookie's development has been significantly aided by left guard Tyler Smith, who has taken on a mentorship role. Both Smith and Guyton hail from Texas, further strengthening their bond. "He's helped me out a lot. He's like a big brother to me," Guyton remarked.
Smith’s assessment of Guyton is glowing. "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. The sky truly is the limit for him and his development," Smith commented.
Guyton's integration into the team culture is not limited to the field. He participated in a rookie karaoke session, where he performed "Mary Jane" by Rick James. "It's a song that everybody knows is groovy and that would work," Guyton said, showcasing his vibrant personality.
However, not all has been smooth sailing. An illness caused Guyton to miss three practices in a row, but he participated in a limited capacity upon his return. Reflecting on this, Guyton commented, "I'm feeling better, for sure. I'm just under the weather, working my way back now."
The Cowboys are set for a joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams, offering another opportunity for Guyton to prove his mettle. Despite the shadow of his predecessor, Tyron Smith, looming large, Dak Prescott believes in Guyton's unique contributions. "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 Dallas Cowboys expect Tyler Guyton to make a significant impact on their offensive line. His combination of physical prowess, mental acuity, and sheer determination makes him a valuable asset. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Guyton to see if he can live up to the high expectations set for him.