The Dallas Cowboys have decided not to pursue a contract extension with wide receiver George Pickens ahead of the July 15 deadline, choosing instead to have him play the 2026 season under the franchise tag.
Cowboys EVP Stephen Stephen Jones said the organization has already communicated the plan to Pickens and his agent, David Mulugheta. The one-year tender, applied in March, will pay Pickens $27.3 million. Jones told reporters Wednesday: “We’ve made a decision that we’re going to have George Pickens play under the franchise tag, which won’t be a first for us. So there won’t be negotiations on a long-term deal. That’s certainly not a first for this organization and certainly won’t be a first in the league in terms of this decision as we move forward. Whether it’s Dak Prescott, who played under one and got tagged a second time, whether it’s D-Law (edge rusher Demarcus Lawrence), whether it’s Tony Pollard, we’ve certainly had those situations … We’re fired up to have George on this football team. Obviously, he’s been here for a year. We gave up a third-round pick. Certainly, he’s made tremendous progress in the year that he’s been here. I think he’d be the first to tell you that this is a great situation for him, playing with CeeDee and Dak and coach Schottenheimer’s offense. I think he loves coach Schottenheimer and what he brings to the table. But certainly, a conscious decision that we’d make.”
Team owner Jerry Jones has indicated there are “long-term plans” for Pickens, but for now, only the upcoming season is guaranteed. The Cowboys could revisit extension talks next year or even use the tag again in 2027, though that would come at a higher cost.
One major factor behind the decision is financial flexibility. Dallas already has significant money tied up in Prescott—currently the league’s highest-paid quarterback—and star receiver CeeDee Lamb. Committing top-tier salaries to multiple receivers presents challenges when building the rest of the roster. Jones also pointed to Pickens’ relatively short time with the team. Acquired in 2025 from the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pickens impressed immediately, but the Cowboys want to see sustained performance and continued growth before making a long-term investment.
Pickens delivered a standout first year in Dallas, setting career highs with 93 receptions, 1,429 yards, and nine touchdowns. His production marked a significant jump from his time in Pittsburgh and made him a key piece of the offense alongside Lamb. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer praised Pickens not only for his on-field performance but also for his developing leadership. “He loves it here,” Schottenheimer said. “We’re thrilled with what he did. We’re looking forward to another great year.”
Pickens has yet to sign his franchise tender, leaving some uncertainty about his participation in offseason activities. Still, he has already been working out with Prescott and teammates away from team facilities. Dallas remains confident that his absence from early programs, if it happens, won’t disrupt progress. Coaches and teammates expect him to stay productive and build on last season’s success.
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