The Dallas Cowboys and George Pickens are at a pivotal crossroads. After a standout 2025 season, the Cowboys aimed to secure Pickens by placing a franchise tag on him, ensuring he remained a key part of their lineup. This move would have netted him around $28.8 million for 2026, effectively sidestepping any bidding wars in free agency.
But things have taken an intriguing twist. According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, the Cowboys and Pickens’ representatives recently met in Indianapolis, where the team opted for a nonexclusive franchise tag. This decision allows Pickens to explore offers from other teams when free agency kicks off on March 11.
Here's where it gets interesting: if Pickens receives an offer from another team, the Cowboys have the option to match it. If they choose not to, they’ll be compensated with two first-round draft picks.
The clock is ticking, though, as they have until July 15 to finalize a long-term agreement. If no other team steps up, Pickens could still don the Cowboys jersey in 2026.
Reflecting on Pickens’ stellar 2025 performance, it’s easy to see why the Cowboys are eager to keep him. After a rocky stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pickens made a seamless transition to Dallas, quickly dispelling any doubts. He set personal records with 93 receptions, 1,429 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns, becoming a cornerstone of one of the league’s most potent offenses alongside running back Javonte Williams, who recently secured his own three-year deal with the team.
As multiple teams monitor Pickens’ status, the Cowboys face a crucial decision. Will they manage to retain their star receiver, or will they have to navigate the compensation route? One thing's for sure: the coming weeks will be pivotal for the Cowboys' future.