If the Dallas Cowboys offense is to improve in 2025, left tackle Tyler Guyton's development will play a key role.
The Cowboys' 2024 first-round pick went through ups and downs last season in 15 games, including 11 starts. Guyton struggled as both a run blocker and pass protector, allowing six sacks and 26 QB pressures in 668 snaps. The left tackle was benched multiple times as he went through the issues, including penalties.
Dallas added first-rounder Tyler Booker to the equation in the offseason, but if Guyton doesn't improve, the adjustments to the offense under new coach Brian Schottenheimer will be for naught.
Former Cowboys great Tyron Smith believes Guyton has what it takes to turn things around in Year 2. Smith has been working with the 24-year-old to help improve his technique
"He wants to put in the work," Smith told Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. "He just needs a little technique work, which he's doing right now. I feel like it's going to be a different type of year for him to slow the game down and get the rookie nerves out. I think he's building more confidence in his technique because he's learning a lot more now.
"Being a first-rounder, the way he is, he already has the expectations. But you can't lean in too much on that, you have to have it for yourself. You have to want to be the best in this league, and that has to be your mentality. As an offensive lineman, we have to have the mentality of playing in this league as long as possible."
The two never played on the same squad, but they share the same agent. Guyton was drafted to be Smith's replacement in 2024. The perennial Pro Bowler hopes to impart enough of his wisdom that the youngster surpasses the superlatives he garnered over 13 years in Dallas.
"I've told him before, 'I want you to be better than how I ever did it,'" Smith said. "It makes me feel good that another guy is wanting to strive to be better than me."
Becoming an eight-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro is getting ahead of things for Guyton at this stage. For 2025, Dallas will take an improvement upon his rocky rookie season.
Many first-year players struggle out of the gate and see a big jump in Year 2. The Cowboys are counting on that happening with Guyton. Smith is helping usher in that development.
