Tyler Booker, the Dallas Cowboys’ newly drafted right guard and 12th overall pick, has quickly become a well-liked figure within the team. Owner and GM Jerry Jones has even likened Booker’s energy and leadership to that of the Cowboys’ Hall of Fame wide receivers. Meanwhile, new coach Brian Schottenheimer emphasized the impressive progress of another 2024 first-round pick, Tyler Guyton, during the team’s second organized activity session. Schottenheimer praised Guyton’s dedication and work ethic this offseason, noting he’s looking stronger and more prepared.
Guyton, who was the 29th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had a challenging rookie season playing left tackle. Despite starting 11 games and appearing in 15, he was ranked 73rd among offensive tackles by Pro Football Focus with a 49.4 offensive grade. However, he has made significant changes in the offseason that have impressed both teammates and coaches. Guyton has developed a better understanding of how to maintain his body and follow routines set by veteran players, which he credits for his improvements.
In his rookie year, Guyton was penalized 14 times, tying for the second most in the NFL, but he is determined to learn from these mistakes and move forward. Unlike many players who only talk about improvement, Guyton has backed up his words by being the first to return to the Cowboys’ facility for offseason training. His transition to the left tackle position was complicated by changing roles in college and some minor illnesses during training camp.
Schottenheimer praised Guyton’s offseason work and highlighted the new contributions from offensive coordinator Clayton Adams and offensive line coach Connor Riley, saying Guyton hasn’t missed a day of training. Guyton himself admits he fell short last year but has adopted a new attitude this season and feels more comfortable at left tackle. His commitment includes extensive training routines, dietary changes cutting out fast and fried foods in favor of vegetables and lean proteins, which have already enhanced his physical condition.
His teammates have noticed Guyton’s transformation, with Pro Bowl left guard Tyler Smith describing Guyton as leaner and meaner, crediting the dietary shift and training regimen. Smith also leads extra offensive line sessions to help Guyton and other young players build camaraderie and improve their skills. Guyton’s dedication extends beyond team sessions, including hour-long stretching routines at home, aiming to increase his size, strength, and flexibility.
A major source of inspiration for Guyton is Tyron Smith, the Cowboys’ retired Pro Bowl left tackle, whose legacy Guyton hopes to honor and emulate. Learning from Smith’s training habits and approach to the game fuels Guyton’s motivation to become a top-tier player in Dallas.
Fan Take: This update on Tyler Guyton is a promising sign for Cowboys fans and the NFL, showcasing how rookie struggles can turn into growth with the right mindset and work ethic. It highlights the importance of player development and resilience, which are crucial for building stronger teams and maintaining competitive balance in the league.
