Dallas Cowboys still unsure about their left guard position for 2023

With Connor McGovern gone in free agency, the Dallas Cowboys are looking into left guard options.

At the Dallas Cowboys mandatory mini-camp, the offensive line was reshuffled and recent changes were made by Coach Mike Solari.

During practice, Tyler Smith played at the left guard position, where he was partnered with Tyron Smith, who played the left tackle position. Their work during spring included practicing at both left tackle and right tackle positions.

The offensive line had Matt Waletzko at right tackle and left guard, Chuma Edoga at left tackle/left guard, and Josh Ball at right guard, who added some bulk this offseason.

Matt Farniok ended up playing more at center because of this. Position flexibility is highly valued by the Cowboys.

The Dallas Cowboys are focusing on improving their pass protection, as they aim to have Dak Prescott available for a full season, which they haven’t had since 2019. Prescott’s protection is crucial, regardless of who the Dallas Cowboys deploy at the skills positions.

The focus is on who will start as the left guard. Let’s look at some possibilities.

Tyler Smith

Within the Dallas Cowboys organization, there is a wish to let him thrive and concentrate on the left tackle position. One option is to start him at guard, together with Tyron Smith, Tyler Biadasz, Zack Martin, and Terence Steele.

I prefer Smith to remain at left tackle while we find out who can manage the left guard position. Tyler Smith seems ready to do anything necessary to assist the team.

"“Being elite at both is going to help the team the most. That’s what I’m focused on. You’ve got to take shorter steps at guard. You’ve got to be more vertical with some steps. In pass sets, you don’t kick as far. You’ve got to have quicker hands. Little nuances like that. But that’s part of the reason why Coach Solari is having me work it now, so when we get into season and get into training camp, it won’t be as unfamiliar.”–Tyler Smith"

Matt Farniok

During spring, Farniok spent a lot of time working at first-team left guard. He has shown progress, but not sufficient to take the left guard position immediately. It seems likely that Farniok will serve as the main backup to Biadasz at center, but he also has the versatility to play at the guard position.

Chuma Edoga

The Cowboys had their sights set on Edoga for a potential trade before the 2022 season.

In his sole start as a guard in 2022, Chuma demonstrated significant potential. In his first start at left guard, he had the best game of his career, allowing 0 sacks, 0 QB hits, 1 hurry, and 1 pressure on 55 snaps.

Despite being primarily a tackle, Edoga possesses the position flex to play guard as well. Southern Cal was where he proved his versatility by playing not only left tackle but also right tackle.

Asim Richards

The Dallas Cowboys drafted Asim Richards in the 5th round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Out of all the players, he is the one that I am most excited to watch and have the intent to keep my eye on.

He made my early 53 player roster projection. Click the link and share your thoughts in the comment section.

He possesses all the requisite attributes that are necessary to play in the position of LT/LG. With over 2,500 snaps under his belt, he is highly experienced. With his long arms, gigantic hands, and impressive power, he possesses an excellent combination of physical attributes. Besides his other qualities, he also has a nasty streak.

Mike Solari has spoken highly about him as a young ascending player. Coach Solari spoke about having Richards focusing on the left side of the offensive lib, but he didn’t say if that means LT or LG or both.

A healthier and younger unit is what the Dallas Cowboys will have if Richards manages to secure the left guard spot, which would be a positive problem for them to have.

“Who are the best five offensive linemen?” is a question that is being frequently asked. I’m looking for the five best individuals who can grow together.

When the Cowboys report to training camp in July, the left-guard position battle will begin.

• Published on 06/21/2023 at 16:01 PM
• Last updated at 06/21/2023 at 16:01 PM