Dallas Cowboys’ Tyler Booker defies expectations, shines in rookie season
The Dallas Cowboys are on the brink of playoff elimination, facing the possibility of one loss—or a win by the Philadelphia Eagles—sending them home early. As the team grapples with this reality, attention is already shifting toward the 2026 NFL Draft. With two first-round selections, there’s a glimmer of hope for a swift revival. Recent successes in the draft have rekindled faith among the fan base, particularly with one standout selection.
Tyler Booker’s Impact
Selected 12th overall from Alabama, guard Tyler Booker may not have been the flashiest choice, but he has proven to be a game-changer for the Cowboys. His immediate impact on the offensive line has drawn high praise, including an impressive grade of A from NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks.
“Dallas’ top pick has made it clear that he relishes dominating opponents at the point of attack,” Brooks noted. “After witnessing Booker routinely overpower defensive tackles for a full game, it’s evident that he embodies the physicality the Cowboys desperately needed to reclaim their bully-ball identity.”
A Surprising Star
During the offseason, fans had envisioned selecting a high-profile offensive playmaker, which made Booker’s name on draft day a surprising one. However, in hindsight, it’s difficult to find anyone who remains dissatisfied with the choice. From day one, Booker has asserted himself as a starter, rising to every challenge that has come his way.
He faced off against elite defensive tackles like Jalen Carter and Chris Jones, holding his ground and proving his mettle. Currently, Booker stands as the 19th highest-rated guard according to Pro Football Focus (PFF), boasting a solid grade of 71.5. Impressively, he has allowed only 20 pressures and a single sack throughout the season.
Run Game Dominance
While Booker’s reputation has primarily been built on his prowess as a run-blocker, his unexpected effectiveness in pass protection has been a pleasant surprise for the Cowboys. Even amidst concerns at tackle, the interior of the offensive line—anchored by Booker, Tyler Smith, and Cooper Beebe—has the potential to be one of the best in the league.
As the Cowboys continue to navigate a challenging season, Tyler Booker stands out as a beacon of promise, transforming the narrative around the team’s offensive line and demonstrating that sometimes, it’s the unexpected choices that make the most significant impact.
