In the latest buzz around the Dallas Cowboys, there's a strong indication that the team is planning to use the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens before the March 3 deadline. This move seems to be a strategic play by owner and GM Jerry Jones, aiming to secure a deal before the mid-July deadline without external distractions.
The Cowboys appear confident that Pickens won't be too ruffled by the tag. However, NFL insider Jeremy Fowler offered a word of caution on ESPN's "Get Up," suggesting the situation could get complicated.
Fowler noted, "The Cowboys are likely to franchise tag Pickens, putting him at $28.8 million, a hefty sum but possibly below his market value. He’s likely looking for something starting with a three in terms of annual salary.
Whether Dallas is ready to meet that is the big question. If they tag him, he might not sign it.
Pickens is ready to play hardball and isn’t afraid to make things uncomfortable."
This scenario could mirror last year’s contract drama with Micah Parsons, which ended with Parsons being traded to the Packers. The Cowboys are undoubtedly keen to avoid a repeat, especially after Pickens' standout season with 93 receptions, 1,429 yards, and nine touchdowns.
Despite his on-field success, Pickens' time with the Pittsburgh Steelers (2022-2024) was marred by punctuality issues and other concerns, some of which have lingered in Dallas. The Cowboys reportedly fined him for lateness and benched him for missing the team bus, raising questions about his consistency.
Former NFL player Damien Woody weighed in, advising the Cowboys to tag Pickens. "I’d say, ‘Show me again,’ because I’m not ignoring your years in Pittsburgh," Woody remarked. "You had a great season in a contract year, but I need to see it repeated before committing long-term."
Tim Hasselbeck echoed Woody’s sentiments, underscoring the need for Pickens to prove himself once more.
As the new league year approaches on March 11, all eyes will be on how this situation unfolds, and whether Pickens will indeed play under the franchise tag. The Cowboys have a delicate balancing act ahead, aiming to keep a key player without letting negotiations turn sour.