The Dallas Cowboys made a final decision on George Pickens. They plan to franchise tag the wide receiver, which will keep him on the roster for the 2026 season while making over $28 million.
Pickens reportedly seeks $30 million per season on a new contract. The former Pittsburgh Steeler came off his best season to date, and the Cowboys are eager to retain him. However, it won’t happen with a new deal, as they did with Javonte Williams.
During Tuesday’s edition of ESPN’s “First Take,” Stephen A. Smith rejected the idea of franchise tagging Pickens.
“Having Pickens under the franchise tag, I don’t know how good that is for the Cowboys,” Smith said.
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“If he’s worried about his long-term future, he’s going to go out and make what we call business decisions. Sometimes, you might not go all out because you’re trying to preserve your health and make sure you’re in position for that long-term deal.”
Speculation about Pickens’ reaction to this new development began as soon as Stephen Jones announced the Cowboys’ plans. Smith was reluctant to agree that it was a good situation for the four-year veteran.
“I don’t like it at all. I don’t like the fact that they’re in a position to do this to George Pickens. Keep him long-term or let him go.”
George Pickens recorded 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns in 2025. He led the offense, along with Williams. The Cowboys’ defense left a lot to be desired, which ruined the team’s chances to compete for the Super Bowl.
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Cowboys insider shares grim update about George Pickens’ contract demands
After Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba shared his contract demands (becoming the highest-paid player at his position), which would pay him over $40 million per season, Cowboys insider Clarence Hill Jr. reposted the news and used it to explain what to expect from George Pickens.
“He wants over $40M annually. And yall think Pickens should be okay with 28-30m? Buckle up,” Hill tweeted.
This could become another bad situation for the Cowboys. They lost Micah Parsons last season, and Pickens could follow through.