The Houston Texans have found consistency at tight end with Dalton Schultz, but as the offense continues to evolve under coordinator Nick Caley, the question isn’t just about what Schultz brings-it’s about what more the position could offer. With free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft on the horizon, the Texans have a real opportunity to elevate their passing game by adding another dynamic presence to the tight end room.
Dalton Schultz: Reliable, Productive, and Still the Guy (for Now)
Since arriving in Houston in 2023, Schultz has done exactly what the Texans hoped he would: provide a steady, veteran presence in the middle of the field. After five solid seasons with the Dallas Cowboys-including a standout 2021 campaign where he posted 78 catches for 808 yards and eight touchdowns-he’s continued to produce in Deep Steel Blue.
In three seasons with the Texans, Schultz has totaled 194 receptions for 1,944 yards and 10 touchdowns. His 2025 season was arguably his best yet in Houston: 82 catches (a career high), 777 yards, and three touchdowns. He led all Texans pass-catchers in receptions, finishing 11 ahead of Nico Collins, and tied for second on the team in touchdown grabs.
Schultz is entering the final year of his three-year, $36 million deal, and unless something changes, he’ll be the team’s primary tight end again in 2026. But with the offense looking to take another leap, the Texans could benefit from pairing Schultz with another high-impact option-especially considering Caley’s background as a tight ends coach.
Think of what the Ravens have done with Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely. That kind of dual-threat setup could work wonders in Houston.
Free Agency: Big Names, Bigger Price Tags
There are some intriguing names set to hit free agency in 2026, and while Houston’s cap situation might not allow for a major splash, the list is worth a look.
- Kyle Pitts (Falcons): Still one of the most physically gifted tight ends in the league. If he hits the market, he’ll draw plenty of attention.
- Chig Okonkwo (Titans): An athletic, yards-after-catch threat who could thrive in a more pass-friendly system.
- David Njoku (Browns): A proven red zone weapon with the versatility to line up all over the field.
- Austin Hooper (Patriots) and Mo Alie-Cox (Colts): Veteran options who could provide depth and experience.
The reality, though, is that Houston may not have the financial flexibility to chase a top-tier free agent. Still, if the opportunity arises to bring in a playmaker to complement Schultz, it’s a move that could give the Texans an edge in a crowded AFC playoff race.
The Draft: Time to Find the Next Owen Daniels?
If free agency proves too costly, the Texans could look to the 2026 NFL Draft, where several tight end prospects are already generating buzz. According to ESPN draft analysts, the top names to watch include:
- Kenyon Sadiq (Oregon)
- Dallen Bentley (Utah)
- Joe Royer (Cincinnati)
- Lake McRee (USC)
- Max Klare (Ohio State)
- Eli Stowers (Vanderbilt)
- Jack Endries (Texas)
It’s been a while since Houston truly invested in a tight end early in the draft. The last time was back in 2019, when they selected Kahale Warring in the third round. Injuries derailed Warring’s chances before he ever got going, and he was gone from the roster within a few years.
Since then, the Texans have taken more of a late-round approach: Brevin Jordan (fifth round, 2021), Teagan Quitoriano (fifth round, 2022), and Cade Stover (fourth round, 2024). Jordan and Stover have both battled injuries, and Quitoriano is now with the Falcons.
The most impactful tight end in franchise history remains Owen Daniels, a fourth-round pick back in 2006. He still holds the team records for tight ends in receptions, yards, touchdowns, and games played. If the Texans want to find the next Daniels-or at least someone who can grow into that kind of role-it might be time to invest significant draft capital in the position again.
Looking Ahead
Dalton Schultz has been everything the Texans needed him to be-and then some. But with his contract set to expire after the 2026 season, Houston has to start thinking long-term. Whether that means swinging big in free agency or finally spending an early-round pick on a tight end again, the opportunity is there to reshape the position into a true offensive weapon.
Nick Caley’s system thrives when tight ends are more than just safety valves-they’re matchup nightmares. If the Texans can find the right player to pair with Schultz in 2026, this offense could take another big step forward.