The Houston Texans’ roster includes numerous playmakers at wide receiver and running back, but the tight end position remains nuanced. Dalton Schultz, the team’s primary tight end, has experienced a notable decline in his NFL rankings, falling out of ESPN’s top ten for 2024. Despite this drop, Schultz continues to be an important receiving option for Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, demonstrating his ongoing significance within the offense this season.
From Dallas to Houston: Schultz’s Career Journey
Originally drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Schultz joined the Texans in 2023 with a three-year, $36 million contract. His third season in Houston showed solid production but did not reach the elite level he previously maintained. In 2024, Schultz registered 53 receptions for 532 yards and two touchdowns. While these numbers reflect steady contributions, emerging tight ends such as Brock Bowers, Trey McBride, and Isaiah Likely have surpassed him in various rankings.
Reliable Performance Amid Rising Competition
Although Schultz’s ranking has slipped, his role as a dependable target remains crucial for Stroud, now in his second NFL season. At 29 years old, Schultz offers experience and reliability, which the Texans’ coaching staff greatly values. In 2024, Schultz dropped only two passes on 88 targets, emphasizing his consistency and sure-handedness. Since 2020, he ranks among the top five tight ends in receptions (257), receiving yards (2,635), and touchdowns (22), reinforcing his steady impact.
Evaluator Highlights Schultz’s Versatility
An anonymous AFC evaluator described Schultz’s contributions on the field:
“He’s just an all-around good player, consistent, blocks, can make contested receptions. He affects winning.”
—Anonymous AFC Evaluator
This assessment highlights Schultz’s multifaceted skillset, showcasing his importance not only as a receiver but also as a blocker and a player who influences game outcomes.
Texans’ Tight End Depth and Future Decisions
As the Texans approach training camp, they carry a deep tight end roster, featuring Schultz alongside younger players like Brevin Jordan and Cade Stover, as well as former Bengals tight end Irv Smith Jr. This depth could impact Houston’s strategy moving forward. The team has a potential option to release Schultz in 2026, which would save them $11.5 million while only incurring a $2.5 million dead cap charge.
What Lies Ahead for Schultz and Stroud
Looking ahead, Schultz’s ability to adapt and continue delivering reliable production will be crucial for maintaining his role in the Texans’ offense and supporting Stroud’s development as a young quarterback. In a league often focused on flashy plays, Schultz’s steady presence offers the Texans a valuable asset that could shape both his and the team’s future success.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dalton Schultz healthy?
A. The experienced tight end has mostly stayed healthy this season. This is the first time he’s been marked as limited in practice since September. In last Saturday’s wild-card victory against the Chargers, Schultz participated in 73% of the offensive plays, catching two out of four passes for 23 yards.