Luke Schoonmaker

Schoonmaker has slipped to TE3 behind Ferguson and Brevyn Spann-Ford, losing snaps and targets as a blocker-focused committee member in Dallas' passing game.

Despite 4 games in 2024 as a receiving threat when Ferguson was out (14-144-1), Schoonmaker has regressed to just 14 catches, 132 yards in 2025 with limited ceiling.

Jake Ferguson's four-year, $52 million extension runs through 2029, cementing him as the Cowboys' long-term TE1 and eliminating any meaningful pathway for Schoonmaker to earn consistent targets or playing time.

Schoonmaker managed just 14 catches for 132 yards in 2025, a significant regression from his 2024 flashes. Career totals of 49 receptions for 438 yards through three seasons demonstrate lack of fantasy relevance.

The Cowboys signed UDFA Michael Trigg on April 25 with only $389K dead cap attached to Schoonmaker — a clear financial signal Dallas is ready to move on. Schoonmaker faces a legitimate cut or trade before Week 1 of 2026.

Entering the final year of his rookie deal (UFA in 2027) on a contract-year tryout. SI and Heavy both floated cut/trade scenarios after the Trigg signing, putting his Week 1 roster spot in genuine question.

If Ferguson sustains injury, Schoonmaker has demonstrated he can handle lead-role targets (20 targets in 3 games vs Concussed Ferguson), providing temporary value upside in high-volume Dallas offense.

If Dallas moves on from Schultz in free agency, Schoonmaker could inherit meaningful red zone and intermediate passing opportunities in a high-volume offense.

After 2026, as an unrestricted free agent, Schoonmaker could find a better role with a TE-needy team seeking a secondary pass-catcher or blocking specialist in a larger opportunity.

Schoonmaker becomes an unrestricted free agent after 2026, providing a potential escape from Dallas and opportunity to find a TE-needy team where he could compete for a larger role.

At trade value, Schoonmaker is available as a speculative flyer for minimal dynasty capital, useful for rebuilding teams seeking upside at minimal risk.