Cowboys place franchise tag on WR George Pickens

The Cowboys acquired Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick from the Pittsburgh Steelers last March for a 2026 third-rounder and a 2027 seventh-round selection.

Pickens, a former second-round pick, went on to have his most prolific campaign in 2025, generating 93 catches, 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. Ensuring that production didn’t leave the building was a priority for Dallas. With Pickens and CeeDee Lamb together, Dak Prescott has the firepower for the Cowboys to remain an explosive, top-tier offense in 2026.

The question spinning forward is whether the Cowboys, who are currently over the salary cap, can strike a long-term deal with Pickens. Eight wide receivers make $30-plus million per season, including Lamb’s $34 million, meaning Pickens should be looking at a massive pay day on a multi-year extension. Another option to consider is trading Pickens while he’s on the franchise tag — the player needs to sign the franchise tender for that to happen.

Until Pickens signs the franchise tender, or a separate extension before July 15, he is not considered under contract and couldn’t be fined for missing any mandatory work this offseason.