Three candidates are in the mix for the LT job: Tyler Guyton, fourth-round rookie Drew Shelton, and Nate Thomas, who stepped in during injuries last season. The coaching staff, led by Brian Schottenheimer, plans to deploy their five best linemen, which could keep Smith at left guard rather than moving him to tackle, a scenario the team prefers to avoid. Shelton is viewed as a versatile option who could swing between tackle and guard, though his impact at left tackle remains to be proven. Guyton is still the presumptive challenger, with Thomas providing depth and development from a later-round pick, but both still face an uphill battle to unseat the incumbent at the position.
Key insights:
– The Cowboys prioritize keeping Tyler Smith at guard if possible, complicating left-tackle depth.
– Drew Shelton could emerge as the surprise starter if he demonstrates superior left-tackle traits and versatility.
– The LT competition includes Guyton, Shelton, and Thomas, with the coaching staff emphasizing the importance of five best linemen in their lineup decisions.
