Cowboys Penalized WR George Pickens Multiple Times Last Season
Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens is entering the offseason as an unrestricted free agent after a standout 2025 season. The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly considering using the franchise tag on Pickens to extend negotiations for a long-term contract or a potential trade.
Pickens’ Impressive Statistics
In the 2025 NFL season, Pickens played in all 17 games, demonstrating consistent performance. His statistics include:
- Receptions: 93
- Receiving yards: 1,429
- Touchdowns: 9
His exceptional performance has secured him a spot in the Top 100 NFL Free Agents list for 2026.
Contract Details and Franchise Tag Considerations
OverTheCap.com estimates Pickens’ value for the 2025 season at approximately $31.68 million. The projected cost for the franchise tag on wide receivers stands at about $28.82 million. This financial consideration complicates Dallas’s decision-making regarding his future.
Maturity Issues and Team Dynamics
Despite Pickens’ success on the field, there have been concerns regarding his maturity and punctuality. NFL sources, including ESPN’s Todd Archer, noted that Pickens was fined during his first season in Dallas for issues related to tardiness. Although these concerns were less pervasive in 2025, they could influence the Cowboys’ willingness to commit long-term.
Background and Draft Details
Pickens, now 24, started his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers selected him as the 52nd overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year rookie contract valued at $6.75 million, which included a signing bonus of $2.09 million. He was traded to the Cowboys for a future third-round draft pick shortly after the draft.
As George Pickens approaches free agency, the Cowboys face significant decisions in balancing his on-field contributions with the team’s broader goals and values. The upcoming negotiations will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
