Cowboys biggest issue on offense is one of durability at this position

They often say the best ability is availability. It’s a truth for virtually all sports and it’s a truth especially applicable for football’s left tackle position. Left tackle, widely regarded as the offensive line’s most important position, is a key cog in any championship machine. The position responsible for protecting a right-handed passer’s blindside can make all the difference between winning and losing on any given play.

For the Dallas Cowboys it’s been a position of strength over the last 20 years. From Flozell Adams to Tyron Smith , the Cowboys have had elite protectors occupying that critical O-line post. Sadly, recent seasons haven’t been quite so stalwart for the Cowboys.

Tyler Guyton , drafted 29 ^th in the 2024 NFL draft, has been assigned to the LT post over the last two seasons. In those two seasons Guyton has done little to instill faith he’s up for the job. Aside from struggling in pass protection, the 6-foot-7, 322-pound tackle from Oklahoma, has struggled to even stay on the field. It’s this latter criticism that represents the biggest test for Guyton as he enters the third year of a potential five-year rookie deal.

A physically blessed prospect, Guyton has the tools required to be a decade long standout for Dallas. But consistency and reliability have impeded his development and cursed the Cowboys offensive line to an indefinite state of uncertainty.

The ace up the Cowboys’ sleeve is their left guard, Tyler Smith . Smith was a left tackle back in his college days and has filled in admirably at that spot over the years for Dallas. He might not be the same All-Pro at the LT position as he is inside, but he’s a plus-performer who can keep the offense alive if needs be. While it’s nice to have Smith ready on the backburner, it’s in everyone’s best interest if Guyton becomes the solution at LT and Smith can stay at guard.

Until Guyton can string together a healthy stretch, he’s going to struggle in his development. His technique and consistency need work and that’s something that’s only achievable through availability.   Guyton has shown flashes in development and at age 24, he’s still extremely young as a prospect. There’s reason to believe he’s ready for a breakout this season, but he needs his body and health to cooperate.

You can follow Reid on X  @ReidDHanson  and be sure to follow  Cowboys Wire on Facebook  to join in on the conversation with fellow fans!

This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys Guyton's durability issues may be bigger issue than his talent