Tyler Guyton: A Promising Rookie for the Dallas Cowboys
In his first year as a professional, Tyler Guyton is quickly making a name for himself as the Dallas Cowboys' new left tackle. Selected 29th overall, the rookie has not only lived up to expectations but exceeded them, becoming a crucial component of the Cowboys' offensive line. His transition from collegiate to professional football has been both seamless and impressive.
Tyler Guyton's football journey took root at the University of Oklahoma, where he started 13 of his 14 games at right tackle. Despite his experience on the right side, his shift to left tackle during the Cowboys' training camp didn't slow him down. Guyton’s intelligence and confidence have set him apart, both on and off the field. “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,” said quarterback Dak Prescott.
The rookie sensation has demonstrated his skills in various settings, including a team jeopardy night where he impressed everyone with his quick thinking. "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," Prescott added.
One of the more notable moments in training camp was when Guyton managed to stonewall star linebacker Micah Parsons during a padded practice. Head coach Mike McCarthy noted, "I thought he had some nice reps against Micah." Such performances have solidified Guyton’s role as a key player on the team.
His successful adaptation to the Cowboys' system can also be credited to the mentorship he’s received from left guard, Tyler Smith. “He's helped me out a lot. He's like a big brother to me,” Guyton remarked. Both Guyton and Smith share a common background, hailing from Texas, which has further strengthened their bond. Smith himself is optimistic about Guyton's future, stating, “The sky truly is the limit for him and his development.”
The transition hasn't been entirely smooth, however. Guyton faced an illness that caused him to miss three practices in a row. Upon his return, he participated in a limited capacity but quickly demonstrated resilience and dedication. "I'm feeling better, for sure. I'm just under the weather, working my way back now," said Guyton.
Off the field, Guyton has embraced the team spirit. During a rookie karaoke session, he chose to perform "Mary Jane" by Rick James, a decision he felt was a safe crowd-pleaser. "It's a song that everybody knows is groovy and that would work," he explained.
The young tackle has already drawn comparisons to his predecessor, Tyron Smith. Yet, the Cowboys recognize the importance of Guyton establishing his own identity. “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.
Looking ahead, the Dallas Cowboys will have a joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams, providing another platform for Guyton to showcase his burgeoning talent. With the potential for significant impact on the Cowboys' offensive line, Tyler Guyton is a rookie whose journey is only just beginning.
Micah Parsons summed it up well by acknowledging the mutual benefit of their competitive practice sessions: “Of course it did. We're both getting each other better... Going up against him, even losing, helps me out.”
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Tyler Guyton. With his impressive start, the expectations for what he can achieve are as high as the sky itself.