Cowboys Rumors: Gregory Won't Get Franchise Tag; Schultz Being 'Seriously' Considered

As the NFL franchise tag deadline approaches, the Dallas Cowboys are reportedly still deciding which player they will tag.

According to Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News, Dallas has "no plans" of placing the tag on defensive end Randy Gregory, and he added that the team is "seriously considering" using it on tight end Dalton Schultz.

The 25-year-old Schultz enjoyed a breakout season in 2021, emerging as a key part of Dallas' No. 1-ranked offense by recording 78 receptions for 808 yards and eight touchdowns. His 104 targets tied with wide receiver Amari Cooper for second-highest on the team. It was just a couple years ago in 2019 that he finished with one catch despite appearing in all 16 games.

It could be more imperative for the Cowboys to retain Schultz considering the team is reportedly "likely" to part ways with Cooper this offseason for salary cap reasons. Cooper, who tied Schultz for the team-lead with eight touchdown catches, would have his $20 million salary  for 2022 guaranteed if he's still on the roster March 20.

Gregory, who has spent his entire four-year career in Dallas, notched 19 total tackles, six sacks, three forced fumbles and an interception in 2021. He has 16.5 career sacks in 38 games played, as he has been suspended multiple times for violations of the league's substance abuse policy.

Letting Gregory walk in free agency could be another blow to the Cowboys defensive line. Watkins reported on Sunday that two-time Pro Bowler DeMarcus Lawrence's future with the team is in doubt after he refused to take a pay cut this offseason. Lawrence is set to make $19 million this season.