Cowboys' conservative approach creates tense situation with breakout player
Dalton Schultz had his progression derailed in 2019 when future Hall of Famer Jason Witten returned from retirement. Ever since Schultz has been the Cowboys' top tight end, and now, he's seeking his first big payday. The Cowboys slapped the franchise tag on Schultz back in March for $10.9 million, a placeholder for a possible […]
Dalton Schultz had his progression derailed in 2019 when future Hall of Famer Jason Witten returned from retirement. Ever since Schultz has been the Cowboys' top tight end, and now, he's seeking his first big payday.
The Cowboys slapped the franchise tag on Schultz back in March for $10.9 million, a placeholder for a possible long-term deal that both sides have until July 15 to get done. However, despite the Cowboys' desire to sign Schultz long-term, he has grown frustrated with the current state of affairs and has informed the team that he will skip the rest of OTAs until his contract situation gets ironed out.
After former tight end Blake Jarwin went down with a torn ACL in Week 1 of the 2020 season, Schultz has taken advantage of his opportunity to shine. He played in all 16 games with four starts and produced 63 receptions for 615 yards and four touchdowns, making him just the fifth tight end in Cowboys history to haul in 50 passes in a season.
Doing it once is one thing, but showing consistency is another. Schultz did just that last season as he finished second on the Cowboys in receptions (78), third in yards (808), and tied for first in receiving touchdowns (8).
Schultz has certainly proven that he's a quality tight end, even gaining national respect for his play. The floor for what Schultz is more than likely seeking was set by tight end David Njoku of the Cleveland Browns who signed a four-year, $56.75 million deal with $28 million in guaranteed dollars last month.
Cowboys' executive vice president Stephen Jones and his frugal approach to contract negotiations won't make things easy for Schultz. The only leverage he has is to try and force the Cowboys' hand for something long-term. If nothing comes about in that regard, Schultz will play at the current $10.9 million tag number with hopes of cashing in once 2023 rolls around.
Feature image via Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
