When Dallas Cowboys fans were treated to an uncharacteristically splendid schedule release video last week, they were given a peek of what the future of the offensive line could be in Dallas. Tyler, Tyler, and Tyler (of Smith, Booker and Guyton fame) make up three-fifths of the Cowboys’ offensive line. 2026 marks just their second year together but hopes and expectations are high for the young trio.
Given all three are former first round picks, expectations come with the territory. Tyler Smith, drafted 24th overall in 2022, already has second-team All-Pro status. The tackle-turned-guard can play inside and outside and is a cornerstone player on the Dallas offense.
Tyler Booker, drafted 12th overall in 2025, is coming off a stellar rookie campaign. The top graded guard in his class and top 20 graded guard in the league, Booker’s needle is clearly pointed up as he builds to his own “cornerstone” status opposite Smith.
Tyler Guyton, drafted 29th overall in 2024, lives a far less certain existence in Dallas. The 6-foot-7, 322-pound left tackle has struggled to develop in his first two seasons with the Cowboys. Injuries and maturity have reportedly held the Oklahoma product back, making 2026 pivotal for his long-term standing on the team.
Tyler Guyton with a total whiff to kill a drivepic.twitter.com/b7s0fWZOhK
— Tom Downey (@WhatGoingDowney) September 21, 2025
Today, the Cowboys are fully committed to “The Tyler Takeover.”
No one wants the trio to work out more than the Cowboys do and their actions over the last offseason back that up. Despite struggling in both health and gameplay, Dallas essentially handed the left tackle job back to Guyton in 2026. Smith’s versatility next to him offers modest insurance in case things don’t work out, but that type of solution isn’t ideal for anyone. What’s ideal is Guyton taking a major step in his development and The Tyler Takeover becoming a mainstay in Dallas for years to come.
2026 is very likely the last great opportunity Guyton has. Even though he’s under contract for two more seasons, the Cowboys can’t afford to roll the dice at left tackle much longer. A poor season this year will demand competition next season. That will either require a new draft investment or significant free agent spending; either avenue would prove costly.
Graded 67 of 84 amongst offensive tackles last season, Guyton has plenty of room for improvement. Perfection isn’t needed but progress and durability are important to see from their 24-year-old. With natural gifts through the roof, the potential for greatness is there, but potential only buys time for so long and Year 3 is typically the pivot point.
Leaning into the coincidence of their names, the Cowboys media team centered their schedule release around their Tylers, calling it “The Tyler Takeover.” It’s a gimmick that’s as amusing as it is inspiring. But for the moniker to continue into future years, Tyler Guyton has to step up his game and seize the opportunity in front of him. If he can’t, this could turn into a Tyler twosome in no time.
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This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys need Guyton to step up so Tyler Takeover can be more than cute