The Dallas Cowboys have made important offseason decisions since the end of the 2021 campaign. From moving on from Amari Cooper to letting La'el Collins walk to messing up the Randy Gregory situation, questionable moves have been made.

It has not all been bad, though. Dallas did re-up breakout defender Jayron Kearse. The team also kept some depth along the defensive line. The draft class has the potential to make an early impact, too.

The latest big decision that the Cowboys are faced with is the contract of Dalton Schultz. Schultz enjoyed a breakout season in 2021. He emerged as a favorite target for Dak Prescott and was a reliable option in the passing game.

However, the Cowboys opted against paying him an extension after the big season. Instead, Dallas placed the franchise tag on Schultz, and the two parties are reportedly not close to agreeing to terms on a new deal.

That could end up costing the Dallas Cowboys, as Schultz is now considered among the best tight ends in the NFL.

In a ranking complied by ESPN that included input from 50 people inside the NFL, Schultz ranked No. 8 at his position. Schultz earned a vote as high as No. 8 on the tight ends list. That qualifies him as a top player at a position that has some star power at the top.

Consistency is a big reason why the NFL likes Schultz. He is not the flashiest of players, but the Dallas Cowboys tight end just finds ways to produce. That counts for something.

"Dependability, versatile with blocking, really good hands," an AFC exec said.

Versatility is another element that the league likes. Schultz is used some different ways in Kellen Moore's offense, which gives him the edge over some of his peers.

Added an NFC offensive coach: "He can handle multiple roles — good hands, competitive blocker, can bend to get in and out of breaks. Not as dynamic as others on this list but really solid."

There is no denying that Dalton Schultz is an important player to the Dallas Cowboys offense. He has solidified the tight end position and has emerged as a premier target for Dak Prescott.

And also, if Schultz has a great season under the tag, he could end up pricing himself out of Dallas in 2023.

Tight ends do not grow on trees in the NFL. The Dallas Cowboys are at risk of losing their top-10 tight end if the two sides cannot agree on an extension.

Featured image via Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports