Cowboys Face Tough Choice Between CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens
The Dallas Cowboys face a significant decision regarding wide receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. With their financial commitments tightly tied to quarterback Dak Prescott and Lamb, the viability of a three-player elite receiving core akin to the Cincinnati Bengals remains in question.
Cowboys’ Current Situation with George Pickens
The Cowboys recently acquired George Pickens, whose rookie contract is set to expire in March. As they navigate this financial landscape, the Cowboys have several choices:
- Sign Pickens to a long-term deal.
- Apply the franchise tag.
- Tag and trade him.
- Allow him to leave in free agency and potentially receive a compensatory draft pick in 2027.
Owner and General Manager Jerry Jones emphasized the importance of Pickens after his standout performance, where he recorded nine receptions for 144 yards and a touchdown. His ability to perform, including an impressive one-handed catch, has generated strong praise from Jones.
Financial Implications
The projected franchise tag for receivers in 2026 could exceed $28 million. If tagged, Pickens could opt to abstain from offseason activities, complicating negotiations. Jones indicated that the Cowboys are likely to retain Pickens, but this will be a costly decision.
Negotiations may prove challenging, as the team previously struggled with David Mulugheta, the agent representing Pickens. Should the Cowboys commit to Pickens, they will face market demands that start with the jersey number—3, reflecting his position.
Comparative Situations
The Cowboys have a historical precedent from their 2018 trade for Amari Cooper. They permitted Cooper to complete his rookie contract before inking him to a lucrative five-year deal. Eventually, he was traded, making room for Lamb.
This precedent raises the possibility of the Cowboys prioritizing Pickens over Lamb in a future trade scenario. A trade involving Lamb, while financially daunting with a cap charge of $42.8 million, might be an option to consider. The team could also restructure Lamb’s contract to lower his 2026 cap hit significantly.
Future Considerations
The Cowboys are likely to deliberate this choice for the next few years, potentially until 2027 or 2028. Given Jones’s remarks about Pickens, it appears he views Pickens as an essential asset moving forward. The eventual decision could favor Pickens over Lamb, although this remains uncertain.
As the Cowboys strategize, maintaining a balance between their roster and salary cap will be crucial for future success. The juxtaposition of Pickens and Lamb will be a focal point in their upcoming roster management decisions.
