The Dallas Cowboys’ left tackle battle was expected to be one of the team's biggest focuses heading into training camp. But one insider believes the competition may not be as open as it seems.

Cowboys insider Jon Machota has questioned the Tyler Guyton and Nate Thomas training camp battle, stating that he does not believe there is a real competition for the left tackle job. Machota believes Guyton remains the likely starter for Dallas in 2026.

“I don’t believe there is a real competition at left tackle,” Machota said on 105.3 The Fan radio show. “I think it is Tyler Guyton, and if it is not Guyton and that is a disaster, maybe they put Nate Thomas out there.” 

Based on Machota's comments, Guyton still appears to be ahead in the left tackle race, with Thomas set to compete during training camp. 

“Left tackle, I'm just not completely sold on that. There’s nothing I have seen at OTAs or minicamp that make me think that," Machota said on 105.3 The Fan.

Tyler Guyton enters training camp with a lot to prove after a difficult 2025 season. The Cowboys expected the former first-round pick to take another step forward, but injuries stopped him from building consistency. 

Guyton made 11 starts during his rookie season in 2024 and started all 10 games he played in last year. However, a high ankle sprain in Week 12 ended his season early and put the left tackle position back under the spotlight. 

Meanwhile, Thomas sat out the entirety of his rookie season due to a knee injury. He appeared in all 17 games in 2025, but made just four starts at left tackle.

Guyton enters camp with dual advantages: being a former first-round pick, and having a greater number of starts. But before he can prove himself on the field, Guyton must first clear an important hurdle. 

Tyler Guyton faces crucial test before the Cowboys' training camp

According to Cowboys Wire's Reid D. Hanson, Tyler Guyton has an important challenge ahead before training camp gets underway. The reporter recently shared why the 2026 season could be a crucial one for the Cowboys left tackle. 

“2026 is shaping up to be a make-or-break year for the 25-year-old left tackle,” Hanson wrote, “so if there was ever a time for extra diligence, this is the time.” 

Hanson also explained that players must pass a conditioning test before taking part in training camp practices because conditioning plays an important role in player health and injury prevention. 

While Hanson did not blame Guyton's previous injuries on his conditioning, he said staying in top shape will be an important first step as the left tackle looks to earn a bigger role in 2026. 

What do you think about Guyton's chances? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

You can read more at the Dallas Cowboys Community!

Written by

Divyanshi Raj

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit