The Cowboys were down to top free-agent priority Randy Gregory and Dalton Schultz for who would receive the franchise tag. In the end, the Cowboys decided to place it on Schultz, which gives them until mid-July to work out a long-term deal.

If Schultz and the Cowboys don't reach an agreement then he will play under the tag that will pay him $10.9 million in 2022. Teams can still negotiate to acquire Schultz's services seeing as the tag is non-exclusive, but the Cowboys can match it if they so desire. If not, Dallas will receive two first-round picks.

The likely outcome is that Schultz will be in Dallas going forward. However, the Cowboys should still look to draft another in April.

One reason why is the uncertainty behind him on the depth chart. Blake Jarwin, who was supposed to be the heir apparent to future Hall of Famer Jason Witten, was waived on Friday, which creates a massive hole, seeing as he was the No. 2 tight end behind Schultz.

Sean McKeon showed some promise during the preseason last year but was put on injured reserve due to an ankle injury. As a result, he only played 119 snaps in nine games and produced just four receptions for 27 yards.

This leaves Schultz as the only tight end on the roster with any real production so grabbing another in the draft has become a major need. Also, while Schultz has evolved as a pass-catcher, he is a liability as a blocker, so finding a tight that can fill that void is paramount.

Schultz does a great job making plays underneath coverage and moving the chains. However, the Cowboys don't have anyone at the tight end position to stretch the field and dictate coverage, especially with Jarwin now off the roster.

Much credit should be given to Schultz for how he has stepped up. After being buried on the depth chart, he shined in 2020 after Jarwin was lost for the season with a torn ACL in Week 1. He amassed 63 receptions for 615 yards and four touchdowns. Last season he was even better finishing second in receptions (78), third in yards (808), and tied for first in receiving touchdowns (8) for the Cowboys.

The chemistry between Schultz and Dak Prescott can't be denied either. Prescott has a passer rating of 120 since 2020 when targeting Schultz, making him one of the most trusted targets on the roster. Their connection is reminiscent of Prescott's vibe with Witten who constantly converted third downs during the three years he played with him.

Schultz has turned himself into a reliable and productive tight end, that's obvious. However, he's the only proven commodity at the position for Dallas currently, so a reinforcement or two are needed.

Feature image via Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports