Cowboys Aim to Keep WR George Pickens With Franchise Tag Option
The Dallas Cowboys face a significant decision regarding wide receiver George Pickens, whose performance this season has put him in the spotlight. Pickens, in the final year of his rookie contract, has emerged as one of the top wide receivers in the NFL.
Cowboys and George Pickens: Contract Talks Ahead?
With an impressive 908 receiving yards, Pickens ranks second in the league for this season. His achievements place him among the highest-paid receivers, following a trend marked by significant signings across the league. Notably, Ja’Marr Chase of the Bengals recently secured a four-year contract worth $161 million, while CeeDee Lamb, also with the Cowboys, signed a four-year deal worth $136 million.
Performance Highlights
Pickens leads the NFL with 12 receptions and 227 yards on tight-window targets, showcasing his exceptional talent. He has established himself as a prominent player for the Cowboys, being the first receiver to surpass 900 yards since Amari Cooper’s 1,114 yards in 2020.
Future Considerations
- Franchise Tag Potential: The Cowboys might use the franchise tag on Pickens, expected to cost over $28 million for a single season.
- Cowboys’ Salary Cap Challenges: Dallas has the lowest projected salary cap space for 2026, complicating negotiations.
- Agent Negotiations: Pickens is represented by David Mulugheta, who typically resists franchise tags for his clients.
Currently, no formal contract discussions have taken place, though Pickens expressed a desire to remain with the team. Quarterback Dak Prescott has also emphasized that retaining Pickens is a priority for the offseason.
Trade Option
In the event that a long-term deal cannot be reached, tagging Pickens could lead to a potential trade. Historical precedents exist for trading tagged players for future picks, although this would be a secondary option compared to securing a long-term contract.
As the offseason approaches, the Dallas Cowboys must navigate these complexities to ensure they retain George Pickens, a key asset in their receiving corps.
