Cowboys' Draft Strategy: Trade Pickens, Stockpile Picks

0:00It's April 23rd. I'm Cory with the story. This is NFL News Today, driven by AI and built for football fans. Dallas Cowboys heading into the 2026 NFL Draft with two first round picks, eyeing a defense rebuild after a rough season. But the real buzz is around wide receiver George Pickens, who's locked into the franchise tag with no long term deal coming from exec Stephen Jones. Jones straight up said the team won't commit big money long term. The Pickens opening the door for a trade. That flexibility lets Dallas stockpile more picks while addressing needs elsewhere. Analysts like ESPN's Dan Orlowski are hyped, saying if top receivers like Jordan Tyson from Arizona State or Carnail Tate from Ohio State slide two, pick number 12. Cowboys should snag one, then flip Pickens for a second rounder and reshape the wide-out room smart. With CDLAM's massive $46.2 million cap hit looming in 2027, Dallas can't afford both stars at elite prices.

1:03Teams like the Raiders, Chiefs, Ravens and Patriots could come calling if the right deal pops. Draft kicks off tomorrow in Pittsburgh from April 23rd through 25th, so keep eyes peeled on how Dallas maneuvers those premium picks to build for the long haul.