The Dallas Cowboys' offensive line is transitioning into a new era following the retirement of Zack Martin and Tyron Smith's surprising departure as a free agent last offseason.
Smith has since joined Martin in deciding to retire, which sets up the opportunity for the two legends to join the Pro Football Hall of Fame together in their first year of eligibility. In the meantime, Smith is already giving back to his former club.
The eight-time Pro Bowler is mentoring second-year left tackle Tyler Guyton, who had a really underwhelming rookie season. Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram shared a photo on X that showed Smith giving Guyton some one-on-one teaching following the conclusion of OTAs.
Tyron Smith mentoring Tyler Guyton is exactly what the Cowboys need
Smith is one of the most decorated offensive lineman to ever suit up for the Cowboys. He's arguably the best left tackle in franchise history. Even with no Super Bowl wins, he should coast into Canton once he is eligible.
You could not name a better mentor for Guyton, who is well aware of the pressure he's under to perform in year two.
"I want to be the guy that can be depended on," Guyton said from OTAs. " … I just feel like I had a lot to prove and I needed to work on things…I'm not going to make any excuses. I just didn't play as good as I needed to last year.”
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Guyton reaching out to Smith about training together (assuming that is what sparked this workout), is the latest encouraging sign. Team reporters were in awe of Guyton's improved physique at OTAs, noting he is noticeably thinner and tacked on some needed muscle mass.
"I think that I figured out a lot about what I need to do to take care of my body, to be able to play at a high level. Also, following the guys that have came before me and understanding that the routine is very important. I feel like I learned a lot."
The Cowboys missed a golden opportunity to have Smith mentor Guyton last year, but they chose to let him walk. That is one of many reasons fans wanted No. 77 back. Thanks to Guyton - and Smith's cooperation - they are making up for lost time.
Not every rookie is going to hit the ground running in the NFL. The important thing is that Guyton genuinely cares about getting better. None other than Brian Schottenheimer went out of his way to praise Guyton in his first media availability before OTAs, revealing that he has "not missed a day" this offseason.
Guyton will need to prove it on the field, but he is taking all the necessary steps to make a big leap in year two.