Cowboys Rookie Tyler Booker Shines in OTAs, Eases Fans’ Tyler Smith Concerns

Dallas, TX – July 5, 2025, 11:25 PM +07

Rookie guard Tyler Booker has turned heads during the Dallas Cowboys’ OTAs, sources told ESPN, sparking excitement among Cowboys Nation and alleviating concerns about the uncertain status of star Tyler Smith. The first-round pick’s standout performance has injected hope as training camp looms.

Booker, selected 12th overall from Alabama in the 2025 NFL Draft, impressed with his powerful run-blocking and pass protection, earning first-team reps alongside Tyler Guyton and Terence Steele during OTAs. GM Jerry Jones praised his readiness, saying, “Tyler’s stepping up like a veteran.” His seamless integration into Brian Schottenheimer’s offense, highlighted by a key block on a 15-yard run by Jaydon Blue, has fans optimistic about the offensive line’s future.

The buzz comes amid uncertainty surrounding Smith, the 2023 first-round pick and 2024 All-Pro, who battled a shoulder injury in 2024, limiting him to 12 games. With his rookie contract expiring after 2025 and a $2.1 million cap hit this year, fans worry about his health and long-term commitment, especially with $32 million in cap space available. Booker’s rise offers a buffer as Smith recovers.

Coach Schottenheimer lauded Booker’s impact, noting, “He’s bringing stability to the line.” Alongside veterans like Zack Martin (retired) and Cooper Beebe, Booker’s 6-foot-6, 325-pound frame and college accolades—First-Team All-SEC 2024—suggest he can shoulder the load. Social media reflects the shift, with posts like “Booker’s a beast!” and “Smith’s backup is here!” trending on X.

As training camp nears on July 21, Booker’s emergence fuels Super Bowl LX dreams. Can he sustain this momentum and stabilize the offense? Stay tuned to ESPN for updates.