 In 1981, he almost won the starting tight end spot, but was still able to share it with Dupree and tied for the team lead with 5 touchdown receptions.In 1982, he was named the starter during the 9 game strike shortened season, finishing second on the team with 30 receptions (led the NFC tight ends) for 441 yards, a 14.7-yard average and 4 touchdown receptions (led the team).In 1983, he emerged as one of the league's top tight ends, making 46 receptions (franchise record for tight ends) for 588 yards (third on the team) and 6 touchdowns.