FRISCO, Texas – The football season is rapidly approaching.
The Cowboys are anticipated to head to training camp in less than a month. This will mark the first opportunity to closely observe Brian Schottenheimer’s inaugural season with the revamped roster and coaching staff. Arriving in Oxnard will provide us with some concrete insights regarding the 2025 Cowboys team.
What questions are on the table? We’ve put together our annual list of critical inquiries that require answers as we approach the regular season. Participating writers Patrik Walker, Tommy Yarrish, Nick Eatman, Mickey Spagnola, Kyle Youmans, and Kurt Daniels have weighed in on some key topics.
Today, we’ll continue our series by focusing on two first-round draft picks: Tyler Guyton (2024) and Mazi Smith (2023), discussing which player is expected to make a more significant advancement this season.
12) Key Leap – Guyton or Smith?
Tommy: Mazi Smith. The Cowboys need substantial performance from their interior defensive line in 2025, and if Smith can take the leap that the team seeks, it could significantly alter the defense’s effectiveness. A solid run defense between Smith and Osa Odighizuwa would be a marked improvement compared to last season. With Guyton, there are resources available to assist him if he continues to struggle, whereas Smith has limited experienced players around him, making his progress crucial.
Kyle: When faced with comparisons, I first consider their impact on the quarterback. Therefore, Tyler Guyton’s performance is paramount for the Cowboys’ success in 2025. While Mazi Smith also needs to step up, Guyton’s role on the offensive line will determine the effectiveness of the revamped unit. Dallas has drafted three first-round offensive linemen in the last four years, and Guyton’s success is key to solidifying that rebuild, especially if rookie Tyler Booker excels at right guard. If Guyton struggles, it raises concerns about future protection for Dak Prescott, possibly leading to additional high draft picks for the offensive line.
Patrik: My instinct leans toward Mazi Smith, but protecting the blind side of an All-Pro quarterback recovering from a serious injury is even more critical. Tyler Guyton needs to make the most significant leap between the two because the Cowboys’ fate hinges on Prescott’s health. With Cooper Rush no longer available, losing Prescott for an extended period could pose a serious challenge, especially considering the inconsistency of backups Joe Milton and Will Grier. If elite edge rushers exploit Prescott’s blindside, the season could quickly turn difficult. The positive takeaway is that Guyton seems more prepared for this challenge than last year, and he needs to deliver on that promise.
Kurt: I’m leaning toward Mazi Smith. Though Tyler Guyton has reportedly improved, the Cowboys have alternative options like Asim Richards or Hakeem Adeniji if he’s not ready. They can also provide him support through chip blocks or by positioning a tight end next to him. However, aiding a 1-tech defensive tackle is more complex. Additionally, Smith has faced three different defensive coordinators in each of his three NFL seasons, each with unique requirements for his position, which has been challenging. Consequently, the pressure now rests on Smith to make a significant leap for his future and the Cowboys’ success.
