 In 1986, his production fell more than 50 percent to 28 receptions for 312 yards and one touchdown, mainly because of the extensive use of running back Herschel Walker as a receiver out of the back field, that produced 837 yards.In 1987, he had 36 receptions for 421 yards and 3 touchdowns, becoming the franchise's All-time leading receiver among tight ends and his 288 catches ranked him fifth on the All-time Cowboys receiving list.In 1988, he lost his starting job in the fifth game due to being limited by offseason surgery on his Achilles tendon, posting 4 starts, 12 receptions and 112 yards.