Why One Stat Shows Cowboys Jake Ferguson Deal Was a Mistake

Jake Ferguson’s 2025 Yards-Per-Catch Plunge Sparks Cowboys Concern

Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson has seen a stark statistical decline in 2025. His production has dropped sharply after a strong start to the season. This comes just months after the team signed him to a multi-year contract extension.

The downturn raises questions about his long-term fit in the offense. According to analysis from Pro Football Focus, his performance metrics have fallen to below-average levels. This trend is particularly evident in one key area.

Jake Ferguson’s Yards After Catch Hit Alarming Low

The most revealing stat is Ferguson’s yards after catch. This metric measures a receiver’s productivity following a reception. For Ferguson, it has plummeted to a career worst.

He currently averages just 3.83 yards after catch per reception. That ranks 29th out of 33 qualifying tight ends. It represents a steady decline in his playmaking ability since his rookie year.

In 2022, he averaged a robust 6.53 yards after catch. That number fell to 5.99 in 2023 and 5.24 in 2024. The current figure suggests a significant loss of explosiveness.

This decline is notable because after-catch ability was his signature skill. It was the trait that originally won him the starting job. Without it, his value to the offense diminishes considerably.

Contract Extension Adds Pressure Amid Statistical Slide

The Cowboys committed to Ferguson with a new deal this past offseason. It made him one of the league’s higher-paid players at his position. The timing now appears curious given his declining output.

He is under contract for several more seasons. The team likely envisioned him as a core offensive piece. His current trajectory does not match that investment.

For context, veteran star Travis Kelce averages over 6.0 yards after catch this season. Ferguson’s lack of comparable production is glaring. It leaves a void in the offensive scheme.

Dallas’s offense thrives with a dynamic threat over the middle. Ferguson is not providing that consistently in 2025. His overall yards per reception have also sunk to a career low.

The Dallas Cowboys need a major bounce-back from tight end Jake Ferguson in 2026. His declining yards-after-catch productivity has become a legitimate concern. The team must find a way to re-ignite his playmaking spark.

Info at your fingertips

What is Jake Ferguson’s current contract status?

The Cowboys signed Ferguson to a multi-year extension before the 2025 season. He is under contract with the team for the next several years.

How does Ferguson’s YAC compare to other tight ends?

His 3.83 yards after catch per reception ranks 29th out of 33 qualifying tight ends. This places him near the very bottom of the league in this category.

Was Ferguson’s early season production strong?

Yes, through the first seven weeks his stats were on a Pro Bowl pace. He has recorded significantly fewer catches and yards in the subsequent eight games.

What does this mean for the Cowboys’ offense?

The offense lacks a consistent dynamic threat in the middle of the field. This can make it easier for defenses to focus on stopping the outside receivers.

Could the Cowboys move on from Ferguson?

It is unlikely immediately due to his new contract. However, his role could be reduced if his performance does not improve next season.