Cowboys Plan to Franchise Tag George Pickens
The Cowboys are determined to keep wide receiver George Pickens from hitting free agency. They plan to apply the franchise tag to him this Friday, following his standout first season with the team.
According to Spotrac, the franchise tag for receivers might amount to around $28 million.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is enthusiastic about Pickens, stating, “I talk to George all the time because I’m excited for him.” He praised Pickens for his contributions and expressed a desire to work out a long-term deal so the player can remain in Dallas for an extended period.
While the franchise tag doesn’t assure Pickens will stay next season, it provides extra time for both parties to negotiate a long-term contract and secure trade rights for Dallas.
At just 24 years old, Pickens enjoyed a remarkable season with the Cowboys after an up-and-down three years with the Steelers, which included being traded for only a third-round pick before the 2025 season. He set personal bests with 93 receptions, 137 targets, and 1,429 receiving yards, along with nine touchdowns during his 17 games this past year.
These impressive statistics indicate that Pickens could command a high-level receiver contract, but the Cowboys might avoid a hefty deal by utilizing the franchise tag.
This strategy gives the Cowboys time to negotiate a beneficial agreement instead of risking a potential bidding war in free agency. Executive vice president Stephen Jones mentioned that the team is leaning toward this direction.
Pickens himself has stated his hope to stay, saying, “I would love to remain, but when you can’t control it, you just hope for the best.”
The Cowboys already allocate $34 million per year for top receiver CeeDee Lamb and are weighing their budget for a second significant contract at the position.
In addition to their offensive priorities, Dallas has pressing needs on the defensive side. The financial implications of Pickens’ contract will influence how they allocate funds for improvements elsewhere.
Jones acknowledged, “What we need to accomplish on the defensive side of the ball is going to impact a lot of things. … It’s going to be a work in progress.”
Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott has voiced his desire to retain Pickens, emphasizing, “It’s extremely important. I think it’s something we have to do.” He noted the significant positive impact Pickens has on the offense and team as a whole.
