A mutual interest existed between the Texans and tight end Dalton Schultz. An agreement has been worked out between the sides; Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports a three-year, $36M contract is now in place.
The pact includes $23.5M fully guaranteed at signing, making the negotiating process highly successful for Schultz and his representation. After joining Houston on a one-year agreement last offseason, the former Cowboys starter has secured a long-term investment with an up-and-coming AFC contender.
Schultz made it clear last month that he intended to remain with the Texans if possible. Likewise, Houston remained interested in working out an agreement after the success of his debut season with the team. With wideout Nico Collins and Tank Dell in place for at least one more season, Schultz will comprise an effective third element in the Texans’ passing game.
The latter developed into a solid producer, with the Cowboys beginning in 2020. During his Dallas tenure, he upped his value considerably, peaking with a stat line of 78-808-8 the following year. However, no agreement could be worked out on a long-term deal, and Schultz played on the franchise tag in 2022. His play that season set him up for free agency, where he only landed a $6.25M Texans contract. Today’s accord will essentially double his AAV compared to last year’s.
Entering his age-28 season, Schultz will be counted on to remain a consistent contributor over the contract's life. He recorded 635 yards and five touchdowns on 59 receptions in 2023, helping Offensive Rookie of the Year C.J. Stroud lead the team to the divisional round. Their relationship will now continue for the foreseeable future as Houston looks to keep as many core pieces in place as possible.
A splashy addition at the running back spot has been circulated in the Texans’ case, and it will be interesting to see if that plays out. In any event, though, Schultz is locked in as an integral component of the team’s efforts to build off last year’s success.
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