Drama is never far from the Dallas Cowboys, and this offseason is no exception. After missing the playoffs for two consecutive years, the Cowboys are in need of a big move. However, the splash they need hasn't quite materialized yet.
The spotlight is firmly on wide receiver George Pickens, whose impressive performance last season left fans eager to see if he would stay with the team. The Cowboys have placed the franchise tag on Pickens, creating a ticking clock situation.
They have until July 15 to lock him into a long-term deal, or he'll play under the tag for just over $27 million in 2026. Meanwhile, Pickens is free to negotiate with other teams, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
Looking to the future, Dallas holds the No. 12 pick in the upcoming draft, providing a golden opportunity to fill some gaps. NFL analyst Chad Reuter suggests Ohio State's wide receiver Carnell Tate as a potential pick. This move could serve as a contingency plan should Pickens exit.
Reuter notes, "If Pickens stays, adding Tate on the outside and moving CeeDee Lamb into the slot would be a beautiful setup for quarterback Dak Prescott." Tate's college stats speak volumes: 51 receptions for 875 yards and nine touchdowns last season, following a championship-winning year with 733 yards and four touchdowns.
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Tate clocked a 4.53-second 40-yard dash, though some teams recorded him at 4.45 seconds. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 192 pounds, Tate draws comparisons to Chris Olave of the Saints, who had a stellar season with 100 catches, 1,163 yards, and nine touchdowns. Scouts see Tate as a likely starter from day one.
Experts are buzzing about Tate's potential. ESPN's Mel Kiper praises his precise route running, reliable hands, and impressive body control, noting his willingness to block-an attribute coaches love. Luke Easterling from Athlon Sports even suggests Tate could be the top wide receiver prospect this year.
As for Pickens, Cowboys fans are understandably anxious, especially after last year's Micah Parsons saga that ended with Parsons heading to the Packers. However, owner Jerry Jones remains optimistic about reaching a satisfactory resolution.
Jones stated, "We really get a lot of deals done because we want them to be a part of the future beyond the franchise year... This is an expression of what kind of person and player we think he is."
Pickens, who joined Dallas from the Steelers last May, delivered an impressive season with 93 catches, 1,429 yards, and nine touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl nod. The clock is ticking, and Cowboys Nation is watching closely.