Still undecided regarding the contract they will offer, the Dallas Cowboys assigned the franchise tag to tight end Dalton Schultz.
Signing him to an extension should be a no-brainer, especially after completing the best season in his four-year career.
But to keep him with the Cowboys while they figure out the contract, they gave him the one-year, fully-guaranteed deal worth $10.9 million.
It’s the lowest amount among all positions in the NFL which still gives them salary cap flexibility to sign other players.
Cowboys fans are hoping that a long-term deal for Schultz will be done soon.
He has proven that he’s an asset to the squad and deserves to stay longer in Dallas.
But until a deal is finalized, he will honor the franchise tag by reporting to mandatory minicamp.
Schultz might lose the chance of getting a long-term extension if he skips the compulsory activity.
Likewise, the fines compound depending on the number of days missed.
I expect TE Dalton Schultz to report to mandatory minicamp tomorrow at The Star. If not here’s the fine amounts: Day 1: $15,980. Day 2: $31,961. Day 3: $47,836. Max out: $96,877. The Cowboys don’t want a prolonged issue with Schultz given how weak the position is behind him.
— Calvin Watkins (@calvinwatkins) June 13, 2022
Dallas Morning News reporter Calvin Watkins tweeted, “I expect TE Dalton Schultz to report to mandatory minicamp tomorrow at The Star. If not here’s the fine amounts: Day 1: $15,980. Day 2: $31,961. Day 3: $47,836. Max out: $96,877. The Cowboys don’t want a prolonged issue with Schultz given how weak the position is behind him.”
Therefore, it would be better for Schultz to attend, especially because he is their top option for the position.
It’s Schultz’s Job To Lose
Behind him on the depth chart are inexperienced players.
Jake Ferguson was selected in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft and could see some action, especially during two-tight end sets.
Meanwhile, Sean McKeon is in his second season and caught only four passes for 27 yards in 2021.
Therefore, signing Schultz to a long-term contract should be their priority because he is their starter.
NEXT: NFL Insider Shares New Dalton Schultz Minicamp Update