Mike McCarthy addresses Dalton Schultz’s return to practice amid contract dispute

Dallas Cowboys tight end Dalton Schultz signed the franchise tag this offseason with belief the organization would then offer him a long-term extension over the offseason. However, as time continues, he has reportedly grown frustrated with the lack of progress and decided to make his feelings known by skipping part of the mandatory minicamp this month.

During a press conference ahead of Tuesday’s minicamp practice, Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy discussed the presence of Dalton Schultz amid the ongoing talk with the front office and owner Jerry Jones.

“Dalton’s been here pretty much the whole offseason, really going all the way back to February,” said McCarthy. “So it’s great to have him back and we’ll get some work today.”

Schultz finished second on Dallas in receptions with 78 last season, only behind wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. He had 808 yards and eight touchdowns as well. Recent reports indicate that contract negotiations have since progressed after the short holdout and his coaches and teammates have expressed little concern over the long-term impact of the decision.

Dak Prescott on Dalton Schultz

In addition to Mike McCarthy, quarterback Dak Prescott talked about how valuable Dalton Schultz is to Dallas, citing how big of a leadership role within the offense he has. As the tight end gets back into working with Prescott and company, he will have the opportunity to become a top-paid tight end as well.

“I mean, it’s huge,” Prescott said. “Obviously, what he means to this team, his leadership. What the role he stepped into to be the guy at tight end. To be a leader of this offense and to make plays. He’s a guy that I can count on, that I can trust, and that’s just continued to grow. And it’s grown over these past few weeks.”

His role is expected to grow further in 2022 as the team replaces the production of wide receiver Amari Cooper and adjusts to new pieces on the offensive line after a reshuffling of duties this offseason. Under offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, the offense has promised to get the quarterback out into space and use him in the run game more, providing the tight end with more chances to make key blocks and slip out for more receptions.