Like many teams around the league, the Cowboys sent a strong message in free agency. However, they did not add a large number of players or keep most of their own players. What is clear for the Cowboys is that they are willing to give opportunities to the young players on the team.
There are a number of players on this roster who are still on their rookie contracts but have yet to have a breakout season. Maybe this year too? The Cowboys can only hope, especially considering they signed just two players in free agency and only have six picks in the NFL Draft later this month.
Therefore, the Cowboys will have to rely on some past draft and free agent signings to fill out this roster.
Today we continue our series with tight end Luke Schoonmaker.
- name: luke schoonmaker
- position: tight end
- experience: 2n.d. Year
- Games played/started: 17/0
- Remaining years of contract: 3
- how to get: 2n.d. Round pick, 2023 (Michigan State)
- Key statistics: He was tied for first on the team in touchdown percentage with Kavonte Turpin, with 25 percent of his catches resulting in touchdowns. Soonmaker had 2 TD catches on 8 receptions and Turpin had 3 TD catches on 12 catches.
past: In just one season, Schoonmaker had an interesting rookie year. Although injuries were a factor, especially during the offseason and training camp, he played in all 17 games and one more in the playoffs. So while he was available, he didn't have the sudden impact the Cowboys were hoping for with a second-round pick. Other factors also played a role, such as Jake Ferguson's offensive explosion in his second year. Ferguson established himself as the starter, while Schoonmaker found a role as a blocker and occasional pass catcher. He caught eight passes all year, but only scored twice. Finding consistency was a challenge for Schoonmaker. He had two receptions last year against Carolina and had only one game with multiple catches.
the current: Considering how Ferguson took a huge leap forward in his second year, the Cowboys can only expect such a leap forward from Schoonmaker. Now, the difference is that there may not be as much of a chance for a breakout season for Schoonmaker, as Ferguson clearly still has potential as a starter. Still, if he can stay healthy during the offseason and camp, he'll be even more comfortable offensively. There is still a role for the second tight end, especially one who is considered a strong blocker. That will keep him on the field. If he can make that jump in terms of his confidence and knowledge, this could be a better season for Schoonmaker.
future: Given that Ferguson is only a year ahead of him, Schoonmaker will likely do enough work to eventually become the starting tight end. That doesn't mean he can't play a key role in the attack and provide a nice one-two punch with Ferguson. Staying healthy, getting used to Dak Prescott and becoming a dominant run blocker will be essential for Schoonmaker's development not only this year but over the next three seasons.
