Tyler Guyton “focuses” on Myles Garrett’s challenge

FRISCO, Texas — Even before Dallas submitted its first-round draft card for Tyler Guyton in April, there was a preconceived notion that a rookie would start at left tackle in the team’s opening game this Sunday.

What was unknown at the time was the challenge that would await the rookie, because according to the schedule release in May, the Cleveland Browns – led by reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett – were waiting on the other side for the team’s opening game on September 8. Even though it’s an insane reception in the league, Guyton is approaching his official NFL debut the same way he has approached every game before.

“I’m still focused on my work,” Guyton said. “I would say the most important thing is routine… I’m always excited about football. It’s like any game, you have to prepare properly.”

Luckily for Guyton, he has already had experience in the NFL against some of the best pass rushers the league has to offer. Every day in training camp, he saw Parsons running on the other side and attacking him with athleticism. In the second week of the preseason, it was Maxx Crosby who attacked Guyton for almost an entire half in Las Vegas.

“You have to compete as a player,” he said of the challenge of blocking Garrett. “I’ve played against Micah (Parsons) and Maxx Crosby, now I get to block Myles Garrett. I feel like I can be myself and see what I can and can’t do.”

While Guyton insists he was “just never a nervous guy” because of his preparation, he still took the time on Wednesday to appreciate Garrett’s ability and attacking technique as a pass rusher.

“A lot of time,” Guyton said of the amount of preparation he’s put into studying Garrett. “When the schedule is announced, you get ready for the first game. You have a little more time to watch. We watched a lot more … I think he’s got all the moves down. He’s a genetic prodigy and a great player.”

Where does Guyton’s preparation come from? Maybe it’s his experience playing on a big team like Oklahoma or his childhood in Central Texas. For him, it’s much simpler: passion.

“I love football,” he said. “I love my family. I love sports and I think it’s fun to get better and learn.”