Cowboys Rumors: Gregory Won't Get Franchise Tag; Schultz Being 'Seriously' Considered

The Dallas Cowboys are still deciding which player they will tag.

According to Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News, Dallas has no plans of placing the tag on defensive end Randy Gregory, and the team is seriously considering using it on a tight end.

In his first season in Dallas, the 25-year-old recorded 78 catches for 808 yards and eight touchdown, becoming a key part of the No. 1-ranked offense. His 104 targets were tied with Cooper for second-most on the team. He finished with one catch despite playing in all 16 games.

It could be more important for the Cowboys to retain Schultz than it is to part ways with Cooper. If Cooper is still on the roster on March 20, he will get a $20 million salary for the next four years.

Gregory, who has spent his entire four-year career in Dallas, racked up 19 total tackles, six sacks, three forced turnovers and an intercept in 2021. He has been suspended multiple times for violating the league's substance abuse policy.

Another blow to the Cowboys defensive line could be Gregory walking in free agency. According to Watkins, the future of two-time Pro Bowler DeMarcus Lawrence is in doubt after he refused to take a pay cut. Lawrence will make $19 million this season.