The Dallas Cowboys have recently navigated a challenging free agency period, marked by the departure of several key players, notably future Hall of Fame left tackle Tyron Smith. In response, the Cowboys prioritized bolstering their offensive line during the draft, ultimately selecting Tyler Guyton, a standout offensive lineman. However, the team's strategy has often involved fielding their best five linemen rather than placing players in their traditional positions. This approach has been evident with Guyton, who had limited experience at left tackle in college, and Cooper Beebe, the 2024 third-round pick who played every position except center in college, but has been assigned to that role with the Cowboys.
Jerry Jones, the Cowboys' owner, acknowledged this strategy on 105.3 The Fan, admitting he may have been overly optimistic about seamlessly integrating these rookies into the lineup. While both Guyton and Beebe have shown promise, Jones recognizes that the adjustment process has come with its challenges. Despite their struggles, including holding penalties and false starts, both players have proven to be among the top rookie offensive linemen this season. Jones remains confident that these strategic moves will pay off in the long run, particularly as the Cowboys continue to face adversity due to injuries and roster changes. The hope is that these decisions will be seen as forward-thinking, reinforcing the Cowboys' reputation for effectively drafting offensive linemen, even as they strive for postseason success.