The Dallas Cowboys are managing a new setback as left tackle Tyler Guyton sustained a knee injury during Monday’s practice. Initial concerns about an ACL tear were eased when imaging revealed the injury is a bone fracture, which will sideline Guyton for at least four to six weeks. This development places additional pressure on the Cowboys’ offensive line ahead of the 2025 season.
Team Looks to Nathan Thomas for Short-Term Tackle Support
In response to Guyton’s absence, Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer identified second-year player Nathan Thomas as a potential temporary solution. Thomas, a seventh-round pick from the 2024 draft, has shown promise during offseason workouts and training camp.
A guy to watch out for is Nate Thomas,
Schottenheimer said.
He’s doing great. He’s a guy we didn’t get to see a lot of football out of last year. He’s been great… He worked his ass off getting back. He had a great spring, worked incredibly hard and was here all the time. We’re moving him around, he’s playing multiple spots. He looks really good right now at tackle. He’s a big guy that’s hard to get around. I love that flexibility that he brings.
—Brian Schottenheimer, Dallas Cowboys Head Coach
La’el Collins Returns to Bolster Offensive Line Depth
Providing further reinforcement, the Cowboys officially signed veteran offensive tackle La’el Collins on Friday. Collins, who last played for Dallas during the 2021 season, brings nearly 90 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL game appearances to the roster. Although his role as a starter is uncertain, his experience is expected to add critical depth to a line dealing with injuries and uncertainty at the tackle position.
Looking Ahead to the Season Opener Against the Eagles
The Dallas Cowboys will begin the 2025 campaign on September 4, facing off against the Philadelphia Eagles. With the offensive line facing significant challenges, including Tyler Guyton’s injury and the need to integrate both Nathan Thomas and La’el Collins, Dallas will be tested early on in protecting their quarterback and establishing their offensive rhythm.
Implications for the Cowboys’ Offensive Line Stability
Tyler Guyton’s injury forces the Cowboys to explore backup options, intensifying the competition for starting roles along the offensive front. Nathan Thomas’s versatility and commitment have impressed the coaching staff, while La’el Collins’s return brings veteran presence to support the unit. How this dynamic shapes the line’s performance will be crucial in navigating the early weeks of the season.