A notable talking point entering camp was the left tackle position. Tyler Guyton and Tyler Smith both saw action at left tackle during the auditions, but the coaches ultimately kept Smith at left guard and tasked Guyton with the left tackle spot. Early returns suggested the plan paid off, with head coach Brian Schottenheimer expressing high praise for Guyton’s performance.
Dallas Cowboys Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer on Tyler Guyton
After the preseason loss, Schottenheimer addressed the media regarding the left tackle competition. He indicated that Smith saw zero first-team reps at left tackle throughout training camp, because Guyton had been performing at a very high level at that spot.
Remarkable progress for Guyton was highlighted, with Schottenheimer noting that Guyton has played as well as he’s seen since Guyton joined the Cowboys.
Guyton’s Background and 2025 Production
Guyton, who joined the Cowboys as a first-round pick in 2024, faced several challenges last season. In 418 pass-blocking snaps, he yielded 31 pressures, six quarterback hits, and two sacks. He also committed seven penalties. Pro Football Focus graded him 57.5 overall, ranking him 71st among 89 offensive tackles in 2025, with a pass-blocking grade of 50.0 and a run-blocking grade of 64.9.
Guyton Earned the Left Tackle Role in 2026
Entering 2026, Guyton has responded positively to training camp work. He has received more reps and has won more one-on-one battles against defensive linemen, signaling a potential return to form. This marks a significant shift from the earlier uncertainty surrounding the offensive line.
The bigger picture for Guyton is simple: protect the quarterback. With Dak Prescott under center, keeping him clean remains the top priority, and Guyton’s development in camp has become a bright spot for the unit.
Outlook for the Cowboys’ Offensive Line
As the season approaches, Guyton appears to be the favored option at left tackle, with Smith continuing to start at left guard. The overall focus is on consistency and durability throughout a 17-game schedule, and Guyton’s performance in camp bodes well for a steadier protection unit. If he can maintain the level he showed in camp, the Cowboys’ line could provide solid protection for Prescott and contribute to a balanced offense.
In summary, the left tackle competition has effectively been resolved in favor of Guyton, who has earned strong praise from the coaching staff. The emphasis now shifts to maintaining consistency over the regular season and ensuring dependable protection for the quarterback.
