Emerging Star: Tyler Guyton Making Waves for the Dallas Cowboys
Rookie seasons in the NFL are often filled with challenges and learning curves, but Tyler Guyton, the Dallas Cowboys' first-round pick, is tackling them with grace and aplomb. Selected 29th overall, Guyton has distinguished himself both on and off the field, showcasing the intelligence and confidence that led the Cowboys to invest in his potential.
Guyton, who began his football journey at the University of Oklahoma, where he started 13 of his 14 collegiate games at right tackle, has quickly adapted to the NFL. Transitioning to left tackle in training camp, he has displayed exceptional skill, stonewalling formidable opponents like Micah Parsons during padded practices.
Head coach Mike McCarthy noted, “I thought he had some nice reps against Micah,” highlighting Guyton’s ability to handle pressure and perform against top-tier talent.
Beyond his on-field prowess, Guyton’s intelligence has been a point of emphasis among his coaches and teammates. Dak Prescott shared a memorable moment from a team jeopardy night, 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.” His quick adaptation to the Cowboys’ system has not gone unnoticed either. Prescott added, “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.”
Guyton’s development is also being fostered by established players like left guard Tyler Smith, who shares more than just a playing field with the rookie; they both hail from Texas. “He’s helped me out a lot. He’s like a big brother to me,” said Guyton, appreciating Smith’s mentorship. In turn, Smith praised Guyton’s physical attributes, “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 is optimistic about Guyton’s future, asserting, “The sky truly is the limit for him and his development.”
Despite the promising start, Guyton has faced his share of adversity. An illness caused him to miss three practices in a row, but his determination remained unchanged. “I’m feeling better, for sure. I’m just under the weather, working my way back now,” Guyton remarked upon his return to practice, where he participated in a limited capacity.
In addition to his formidable presence on the gridiron, Guyton has showcased his personality off the field, endearing himself to teammates and fans alike. During a rookie karaoke session, he performed “Mary Jane” by Rick James, explaining, “It's a song that everybody knows is groovy and that would work.”
Veteran quarterback Dak Prescott emphasized the importance of Guyton's unique identity on the team: “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.” This sentiment echoes the sentiment of steady progression and individual growth, key attributes in the high-stakes world of the NFL.
Looking forward, the Cowboys are set to engage in a joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams, providing another testing ground for Guyton’s skills. His predecessor, Tyron Smith, made significant contributions to the team's offensive line, and the Cowboys are optimistic that Guyton can bring the same, if not higher, level of impact.
Overall, Tyler Guyton’s blend of intelligence, confidence, and physicality marks him as a standout rookie. As he continues to develop under the guidance of seasoned teammates and coaches, the Dallas Cowboys—and the NFL at large—may well witness the rise of a formidable left tackle in the making.