Cowboys Place Non-Exclusive Franchise Tag on George Pickens
The Dallas Cowboys have placed the nonexclusive franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens, valued at $27.3 million for the 2026 season.
The team has informed Pickens' representation that they will not negotiate a long-term contract in 2026. Concurrently, the Cowboys have not ruled out selecting a wide receiver in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, where they hold two first-round selections (12th and 20th overall).
Franchise Tag and Future
- The Cowboys placed the nonexclusive franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens in March 2025 after he was kept off the free agent market.
- The tag carries a fully guaranteed 2026 salary and a cap hit exceeding $28 million.
- Team owner Jerry Jones confirmed that the Cowboys informed agent David Mulugheta they will not hold contract talks with Pickens in 2026.
- Executive vice president Stephen Jones cited financial constraints, noting the difficulty of having two receivers paid at top-of-market rates alongside other high-salaried players on the roster.
- Jones described a 5-10 minute call with Mulugheta as "professional and cordial."
- Pickens is expected to sign the franchise tag and attend the team's offseason program, which begins next week.
- Coach Brian Schottenheimer stated on Wednesday that he expects Pickens to be present.
- Pickens has participated in off-site workouts with quarterback Dak Prescott and other receivers.
- Once signed, the Cowboys can trade Pickens at any time.
- Pickens is scheduled for free agency in 2027.
Player Performance
Pickens, 24, recorded career-high numbers in his most recent season: 93 receptions on 137 targets, 1,429 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns over 17 games.
- He was traded from the Pittsburgh Steelers to the Cowboys for a third-round pick ahead of the 2025 season.
- Prior to joining the Cowboys, Pickens had a three-year tenure with the Steelers.
Draft Strategy
Wide Receiver Consideration
- The Cowboys have two first-round picks (12th and 20th overall) in the 2025 NFL Draft.
- Jerry Jones stated that the option to draft offense is "alive and well," citing the 2020 selection of CeeDee Lamb despite a defensive need.
- Executive vice president Stephen Jones said the team will not be opposed to taking the best player on their board.
- The team hosted Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson and Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate for top-30 pre-draft visits.
- Jones did not address whether the team would inform Pickens if they select a wide receiver.
Defensive Context
- The Cowboys allowed a franchise-record 511 points in the 2024 season.
- The team has identified needs on the defensive side of the ball, which will influence salary allocation for other player deals.
Team Financial Considerations
Current Wide Receiver Commitments
- Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb's contract carries a $34 million average annual salary, which ranks fourth among NFL wide receivers.
Broader Financial Landscape
- The Cowboys traded Micah Parsons before the 2025 season after failing to reach a long-term deal. Mulugheta also represents Parsons.
- Quarterback Dak Prescott has been described as "the highest-paid player in this league for many years now."
- Jerry Jones stated that decisions regarding Pickens would be made based on overall team objectives, particularly concerning the defensive side of the ball.
Public Statements
Team Management
- Jerry Jones expressed positive sentiments regarding Pickens's contributions and the team's desire for a long-term agreement.
- Stephen Jones stated the team had been "leaning" toward using the franchise tag.
- Stephen Jones commented, "We think the world of him. We want him here."
Player and Coach Statements
- Pickens stated his preference to remain with the Cowboys, acknowledging that the ultimate decision was not under his direct control.
- Dak Prescott emphasized the importance of retaining Pickens, citing his impact on the offense.