Dallas Cowboys Tight End Group: A Position of Promise and Potential

The Dallas Cowboys’ tight end group is one of the most intriguing position groups heading into the 2025 NFL season. With promising but unproven talent across the depth chart, there’s a lot to watch for as training camp approaches. Jake Ferguson has a lot to prove as he enters a critical contract year, while Luke Schoonmaker faces the challenge of shedding the “draft bust” label. Meanwhile, younger players like John Stephens Jr. and Brevyn Spann-Ford have shown flashes of their potential, making this group one to keep an eye on.

The Return of Lunda Wells and the Influence of Klayton Adams

With Lunda Wells returning as tight ends coach and the addition of a new offensive coordinator in Klayton Adams, the Cowboys’ offense could undergo a transformation in 2025. Adams, who previously served as the offensive line coach for the Arizona Cardinals, is known for his creative use of tight ends in multiple sets. The Cardinals frequently utilized tight ends in versatile ways, often lining them up as fullbacks or motioning them into the formation to serve as pulling blockers in the run game. Under Adams’ influence, the Cowboys may use more multiple tight-end sets, which could be a significant boost to the development of players like Spann-Ford.

Brevyln Spann-Ford: The Big Winner in 2025

Among the tight ends, one player who stands to benefit significantly from the changes is Brevyn Spann-Ford. As TE3 for the Cowboys last season with just a 26% snap count, Spann-Ford had limited opportunities to showcase his abilities. However, with the expected increase in 12 and 13 personnel (more two-tight-end and three-tight-end formations), Spann-Ford could see more playing time. This is especially important for him because his best skill is run blocking, an area where he has shown great potential.

When the Cowboys signed Spann-Ford as an undrafted free agent (UDFA) last year, it was clear they were betting on his run-blocking ability. He had a reputation for being a tough, gritty player in college, and he demonstrated that same determination during training camp and the preseason. His hard work earned him a spot on the 53-man roster.

A Better Blocker Than Receiver, But That’s Just Fine

While Spann-Ford has done a good job addressing questions about his pass-catching abilities, it’s clear that his strength lies in blocking. As the Cowboys’ offense leans more heavily on its tight ends to be integral parts of the run game, Spann-Ford’s ability to block could make him a key contributor. In an offense that values run blocking over receiving skills from its tight ends, Spann-Ford’s profile as a blocker is likely to make him a favorite for more playing time in 2025.

With the Cowboys’ tight end depth chart looking competitive, Spann-Ford may already have an edge over his peers due to his strong blocking profile. He’ll enter the offseason with a head start, but the battle for tight end snaps in Oxnard, California, next summer will certainly be intense.

The Tight End Battle Ahead

Overall, the Cowboys’ tight end group is one of the more fascinating position battles to watch in the upcoming season. With the potential for more usage of multiple tight-end sets, a player like Spann-Ford could seize the opportunity to prove that his blocking skills make him an essential piece of the Cowboys’ offense. As 2025 approaches, this position group promises to be a key component in Dallas’s offensive success.