The Dallas Cowboys’ acquisition of George Pickens last offseason was met with high hopes, and the dynamic wide receiver delivered beyond expectations. Pickens emerged as a top-tier No. 1 receiver, just in time for his first foray into free agency.
Now, the Cowboys face the challenge of keeping him on their roster. While contract negotiations in Dallas can often be tricky, Jerry Jones has a golden opportunity to secure Pickens and win over the fan base by offering a straightforward contract extension.
Cowboys fans are understandably anxious about the negotiations, especially with memories of the Micah Parsons contract saga still fresh. The fear of losing Pickens, who shares an agent with Parsons, looms large.
However, Jones can set a new precedent by swiftly signing the 24-year-old to a multi-year extension, bypassing the need for a franchise tag and avoiding any free agency drama. This would signal a shift towards handling contract decisions with ease and efficiency.
Pickens’ performance in his lone season with Dallas speaks volumes. With 93 receptions, 1,429 yards, and nine touchdowns, he not only made the Pro Bowl but also earned a Second-Team All-Pro nod. At just 25 years old, he’s a fan favorite and a locker room leader, making him a key asset the Cowboys can’t afford to lose.
Despite the apparent simplicity of the situation, the Cowboys seem poised to take a more complicated route by considering the franchise tag. If Jerry Jones can steer clear of unnecessary drama and extend Pickens, he’ll not only retain a star player but also strengthen his standing with the fans.