ESPN crowns Cowboys' Tyler Smith No. 1; Tyler Booker gets recognition
· Yahoo Sports
ESPN continues their march toward training camp by revealing the top-rated players by position, and the latest edition has Cowboys guard Tyler Smith ranked as the best interior offensive lineman throughout the NFL.
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Originally entering the league as a tackle, the 2022 first-round pick out of Tulsa has seamlessly transitioned into an elite guard, where his physicality in the run game and improved pass protection have made him one of the most complete players in all of football.
Despite the top ranking, mentioning his 72.1% run game and 95.2% pass game win rates as "quality but not elite numbers" should be viewed favorably and not as a subtle shot, since Smith dealt with a lingering knee issue all season long.
Smith's No. 1 ranking was by no means a consensus matter, though. Of the coaches, execs, and scouts polled by ESPN, at least one voter- somewhat incredibly- didn't have Smith listed in the top 10 at all. Votes were indeed all over the place for the NFL's guards and centers: eight of the top 10 received at least one No. 1 vote. But eight members of that same top 10 also went unranked completely by at least one voter.
But despite "a very close race," Smith came out on top, thanks to "raw ability."
His obvious value on on the interior of the offensive line should also put to bed any questions about kicking him to the outside. Yet those rumors persist.
For Dallas, Smith's presence has been foundational. Whether paving lanes in the run game or keeping the pocket clean for Cowboys quarterbacks, he has become the centerpiece of an offensive line that continues to evolve.
"Rare combination of size, athleticism, strength and finish," an AFC exec said. "He's like prime Jason Peters playing guard." — ESPN
Adding to the Cowboys' momentum in the trenches is rookie standout Tyler Booker, who earned honorable mention recognition in the same ranking. While still early in his professional development, Booker has already generated buzz for his strength and technique.
Known for his physical play style coming out of college, he projects to eventually join Smith among the league's elite.
"Strong and athletic with physicality. Struggles a bit with guys that are good lateral movers." -- NFL coordinatorvia ESPN
The dual recognition for Smith and Booker highlights a broader theme for Dallas — their investment in the offensive line continues to pay dividends. With a proven All-Pro caliber guard anchoring the unit and young talent opposite him, the Cowboys appear well positioned to maintain interior dominance for years to come.
Left off the list was center Cooper Beebe who, barring any setbacks, should come into his own this season and could thrust himself into the conversation on next year's list.
As for the law offices of Tyler and Tyler, Dallas may soon boast not just the best interior lineman in football, but the best interior duo in the league.
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This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: ESPN crowns Cowboys' Tyler Smith No. 1; Tyler Booker gets recognition