Tyler Guyton Shines in Dallas Cowboys Training Camp, Impresses Teammates and Coaches
From spelling "hippopotamus" without hesitation to facing off against All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons, Tyler Guyton, a first-round rookie left tackle for the Dallas Cowboys, has been making waves during training camp. Despite being a newcomer, Guyton's intelligence and confidence have set him apart on and off the field.
Selected 29th overall, Guyton has quickly adapted to the Cowboys' system, showing versatility and resilience. During a team jeopardy night, his intelligence shone through. Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott marveled, "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." This episode was a testament to Guyton's quick thinking under pressure, a quality that has translated well onto the field.
Guyton's football journey began at the University of Oklahoma, where he started 13 of his 14 collegiate games at right tackle. Transitioning to the professional level, he has displayed exceptional skill at left tackle during training camp, even when matched against top-tier competition. In preparation for a padded practice, Guyton managed to stonewall Micah Parsons, who led the NFL in quarterback pressures. Head coach Mike McCarthy praised him, stating, "I thought he had some nice reps against Micah."
McCarthy's confidence in Guyton reflects the broader sentiment within the Cowboys organization. Prescott elaborated on Guyton's impact, "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." Prescott emphasized that Guyton's mindset and ability to learn quickly have contributed significantly to his promising start.
Guyton's development has also been aided by left guard Tyler Smith, whom he credits as a mentor. "He's helped me out a lot. He's like a big brother to me," Guyton noted. Both players hail from Texas, adding a layer of familiarity and camaraderie to their relationship. Smith's guidance has been invaluable, with Guyton acknowledging that Smith makes his job easier and enriches the entire offensive line room.
Smith's assessment of Guyton is glowing, to say the least. "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 said, highlighting Guyton's rare physical attributes. He believes that once Guyton becomes more confident and masters the playbook, "the sky truly is the limit for him and his development."
Off the field, Guyton has also shown an ability to connect with his teammates through more than just football. During a rookie karaoke session, he performed "Mary Jane" by Rick James to set the tone for his peers. "It's a song that everybody knows is groovy and that would work," Guyton said, showing his awareness of how to engage and lead in various settings.
Despite facing an illness that caused him to miss three practices in a row, Guyton has been determined to return to full participation. Limited in his first practice back, he expressed optimism, stating, "I'm feeling better, for sure. I'm just under the weather, working my way back now." The Cowboys' upcoming joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams provides another opportunity for Guyton to showcase his rapid progression and resilience.
Parsons, who has directly benefitted from competing against Guyton, also sees tremendous potential in the rookie. "Of course it did. We're both getting each other better... Going up against him, even losing, helps me out," Parsons admitted. This mutual enhancement speaks volumes about the positive environment within the team, where even the most intense competition fosters growth rather than resentment.
Prescott added that Guyton should focus on being himself rather than emulating his predecessor, Tyron Smith. "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 affirmed, emphasizing the importance of personal authenticity and growth.
The journey for Tyler Guyton is just beginning, but early indications show a player who not only possesses the physical tools but also the mental fortitude to succeed at the highest level. As he continues to integrate and refine his skills, the Dallas Cowboys are undoubtedly excited about the potential impact he will have on their offensive line.