Oklahoma Sooner Tackle Would Fill Critical Draft Need For New Orleans Saints Despite Flying Under The Radar

Somewhat overlooked by other tackles in the draft, this Oklahoma blocker has the ability to fill multiple roles for an offensive line.

It is no secret that the New Orleans Saints have a major need at offensive tackle.

Trevor Penning, a 2022 first-round pick at left tackle, missed most of his rookie year and was benched before mid-season last year because of poor performance.

Ryan Ramczyk, a former All-Pro at right tackle, may not be ready for the start of the season because of a knee issue. Those issues have robbed him of some of his agility and will likely shorten his career. Making matters worse, veteran G/T Andrus Peat, who played well upon replacing Penning last year, is still an unsigned free agent.

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Most expect the Saints to draft a tackle with their first round pick, the 14th overall selection. Joe Alt (Notre Dame), Olumuyiwa Fashanu (Penn State), and Taliese Fuaga (Oregon State) are projected to be the top tackles taken and may be off the board by the time New Orleans selects. Fortunately, this year's draft class appears deep at this position.

Alabama's JC Latham, Amarius Mims of Georgia, and Washington's Troy Fautanu are other tackles most expect will be first-round picks. Another player expected to be among that group has slipped a bit under the radar despite his accomplishments for a premier program.

Tyler Guyton, OT - Oklahoma; 6'8" & 322 lbs.

Oklahoma Sooners offensive lineman Tyler Guyton (60) lines up during practice at the 2024 Senior Bowl

Credit:© Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports

Tyler Guyton initially landed at TCU after starring in football and basketball at Manor High School in Texas. He'd redshirt in 2020 and saw light action in 2021 before transferring to Oklahoma. After beginning his Sooners career at left tackle in 2022, he'd flip to the right side.

Last season, Guyton was one of the top linemen in the Big 12. He enters the NFL Draft with ideal length and size at the position. Also, the experience of having played on both sides and as perhaps the most athletic offensive lineman in his class.

Pass protection is where Guyton shines brightest, often in one-on-one matchups. He maintains impressive technique and power throughout pass reps. Nimble and agile, Guyton is able to glide smoothly to combat speed rushers and oncoming blitzers.

As a run blocker, Guyton explodes off the line to often gain quick advantage. His superior athleticism allows him to pull easily to the opposite side as a lead blocker on screens and misdirection.

Offensive lineman Tyler Guyton participates in drills during the Oklahoma Sooners Pro Day

Credit:© BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK

Not nearly as advanced as a run blocker, this is an area where Guyton needs the most general improvement. He tends to play too upright on running plays. This causes him to lose leverage and creates difficulty for him to sustain his blocks.

Injuries have been a concern. Guyton has missed some time in each of his collegiate seasons. This has given him limited experience, especially evident in his recognition and reaction to complex rush packages and identifying blitzes.

Guyton is expected to be a first round choice. However, projections have him being selected anywhere from the top 12 to the end of the opening night. He has the capability to be an opening day starter with the flexibility to play either side.

Guyton will need to improve as a run blocker but has the potential to be an elite pass protector. For a New Orleans Saints team that has issues at both tackles, Guyton would be certain to fill at least one immediate need.