Cowboys Set at TE for 2026, but Future Uncertain

Dallas must address tight end position beyond this season as two key players near free agency

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys have their tight end position locked down for the 2026 season, with two-time Pro Bowler Jake Ferguson under contract. However, the futures of Luke Schoonmaker and Brevyn Spann-Ford, both of whom could seek contract extensions as early as this year, remain uncertain beyond 2026. The Cowboys may need to look to the free agent market to bolster the position long-term, with names like Dallas Goedert and Austin Hooper potentially available.

Why it matters

The tight end position is a critical part of the Cowboys' offense, and ensuring they have stability and talent at the position is key to their success. With Ferguson the only one locked up beyond 2026, the team will need to make decisions on Schoonmaker and Spann-Ford, or potentially look to free agency to fill the void.

The details

Brevyn Spann-Ford, an undrafted free agent, has emerged as a physical, athletic blocker who is also developing as a receiving threat. Luke Schoonmaker, a second-round pick in 2023, has had a slow start but is beginning to show promise as a complementary piece to Ferguson. The Cowboys will need to decide whether to extend these players or look elsewhere, with potential free agent options including Dallas Goedert and Austin Hooper.

  • Brevyn Spann-Ford will be a restricted free agent in 2027.
  • Luke Schoonmaker will be an unrestricted free agent in 2027.

The players

Jake Ferguson

A two-time Pro Bowl tight end who is under contract with the Cowboys through 2026.

Brevyn Spann-Ford

An undrafted free agent tight end who has emerged as a physical, athletic blocker with developing receiving skills.

Luke Schoonmaker

A second-round pick in 2023 who has had a slow start but is beginning to show promise as a complementary piece to Ferguson.

Dallas Goedert

A longtime NFC East foe who is a reliable offensive target and had 11 touchdowns in 2025.

Austin Hooper

A highly durable and dependable tight end who has a pre-existing relationship with Cowboys QB Dak Prescott.

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What they’re saying

“Fact is, two-time Pro Bowl tight end Jake Ferguson is the only one of those three under contract beyond 2026 and, considering two-thirds of the depth chart isn't secured beyond this coming season, means keeping one eye on the future of Luke Schoonmaker and Brevyn Spann-Ford, both of whom would like to open contract negotiations as early as this year.”

— Patrik Walker, DallasCowboys.com editorial staff (statenews.net)

What’s next

The Cowboys will need to decide whether to extend Schoonmaker and Spann-Ford or look to the free agent market to address the tight end position long-term.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' tight end position is secure for 2026, but the team must plan for the future as two key players approach free agency. Navigating this situation will be crucial for the team's offensive success beyond the upcoming season.