

The Dallas Cowboys stunned NFL fans by selecting Alabama guard Tyler Booker with the No. 12 overall pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Expected to target a wide receiver or defensive playmaker to complement stars CeeDee Lamb and Micah Parsons, the Cowboys instead prioritized their offensive line, addressing uncertainty at right guard after Zack Martin’s retirement.
The move, announced with fanfare on the team’s X account-“Bookin’ it to Dallas “-sparked heated debate among fans and analysts, with some calling it a reach, others a savvy long-term investment.
Booker, a 21-year-old junior from New Haven, Connecticut, stands at 6’5″ and 321 pounds, bringing a massive frame and All-American pedigree. A two-year starter at left guard for Alabama, he earned First-Team All-SEC honors in 2024 and didn’t allow a single sack across 395 pass-blocking reps, per Pro Football Network.
“I’m a mauler. I’m physical. I’m nasty,” Booker told the Stamford Advocate, describing his aggressive style honed under coaches Nick Saban and Kalen DeBoer. His 92 knockdown blocks in 2024 led the Crimson Tide, making him a fit for Dallas’ run-heavy scheme.
Booker’s surprise Cowboys Draft pick sparks fan debate
The Cowboys’ decision came after a pre-draft visit with Booker on April 21, signaling their interest, as reported by Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News. “Tyler Booker is a plug-and-play starter,” CBS Sports’ Ryan Wilson wrote, praising his pass protection and “earth-moving ability” in the run game.
While some, like The Athletic’s Dane Brugler, projected Booker as a second-round pick, Dallas saw him as Martin’s heir. “His leadership will fit our locker room,” GM Jerry Jones said at the post-draft presser, citing Booker’s team captain role at Alabama.
Fans on X were polarized. “Media was off on Tyler Booker…NFL loved him,” posted @Brentley12, while others lamented bypassing flashier prospects like Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan. Booker’s combine stats-a 5.38-second 40-yard dash and 34.5-inch arms-highlight his power, though his lateral quickness needs work, per NFL.com.
His versatility, with one start at left tackle, adds depth to a line featuring Tyler Smith and Tyler Guyton. With a 7-10 record in 2024 and no playoff berth, Dallas hopes Booker stabilizes an offense that struggled to protect Dak Prescott. As the draft unfolded at Lambeau Field, Booker’s selection marked a bold pivot, banking on his potential to anchor the trenches for years.
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