The Dallas Cowboys have a big decision looming when it comes to wide receiver George Pickens - and as of now, there’s no sign of movement toward a long-term extension.
Despite rumblings in mid-January that Dallas might use the franchise tag to keep Pickens off the free-agent market, it turns out contract discussions haven’t even begun. According to multiple sources with knowledge of the situation, the Cowboys have yet to engage with Pickens’ agent, Trevon Smith, this offseason. Smith works at the same agency as David Mulugheta, a well-connected figure in NFL circles who previously represented Micah Parsons before the Cowboys dealt him to the Packers late last August.
Mulugheta reportedly has a close relationship with Pickens, which could help facilitate talks if and when Dallas decides to open negotiations. But for now, it’s radio silence - and that’s notable with the franchise tag window opening on February 17. The tag for wide receivers is projected to come in around $28.8 million, and while Dallas could use it to retain Pickens’ rights, the wideout has already hinted he may not be quick to sign it, especially if a long-term deal isn’t on the table.
And based on the season he just had, Pickens has every reason to want that long-term security.
After arriving in Dallas via trade from the Steelers last spring, Pickens wasted little time proving he could be a legitimate WR1 in this offense. He finished the regular season third in the NFL with 1,429 receiving yards, eighth in catches with 93, and tied for eighth in touchdown receptions with nine. That’s elite-level production, especially for a player adjusting to a new system and quarterback.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Pickens was benched for the opening series of one game after reportedly missing the team bus, and he was fined multiple times during the season for being late. On top of that, there were questions about his effort during a Week 14 loss to the Lions, where he was accused of running lazy routes - not the kind of thing you want on your résumé heading into contract talks.
Still, the raw numbers speak volumes. Pickens is a game-changer, and he’s entering the prime of his career.
According to those close to the situation, there was already hope last offseason that Pickens could command a deal worth at least $30 million annually. After the year he just had, that number might be climbing.
What happens next will be telling. If Dallas doesn’t extend an offer that satisfies Pickens and his camp, don’t be surprised if he skips parts of the offseason program - or even holds out of training camp entirely. This has all the makings of a contract showdown between a top-tier receiver and a front office that’s already juggling other big financial decisions.
For now, the clock is ticking. The Cowboys have a star wideout who wants to be paid like one - and no meaningful negotiations have taken place.
That’s not just a storyline to watch. That’s a situation that could shape the Cowboys’ offense - and their cap sheet - for years to come.