Cowboys Lock in Pickens with Franchise Tag

0:00On March 7th, the Dallas Cowboys have placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens locking him in for a one-year deal worth. $27.3 million fully guaranteed starting March 11th when the 2026 league year begins. Pickens delivered a breakout season in 2025 with 93 catches, 1,429 yards, and 9 touchdowns. After joining the team from Pittsburgh, this comes as he finishes his four-year rookie contract, where he earned just $6.7 million over four seasons. Jerry Jones made it clear he values Pickens highly, calling him personally to frame the tag as a strong vote of confidence rather than a setback. Jones emphasized their relationship, staying sweet and highlighted Pickens as both a top player and person after just one year with Dallas. Meanwhile, the team hopes to negotiate a long-term extension before the July 15th deadline. Players like Dak Prescott have weighed in, advising Pickens to bet on himself, drawing

1:01parallels to Prescott's own franchise tag experience back in. 2020 and DeMarcus Lawrence's in 2018 were both accepted the big one-year paydays without complaint. Prescott noted Pickens' talent will carry him far either way. This move contrasts with last-use handling of Micah Parsons, who pushed hard for a massive multi-year deal before getting traded to Green Bay for. Two first-round picks, a defensive tackle, and cap relief. For Pickens, the tag opens the door for him to shop offers from other teams, with Dallas holding right a first refusal or compensation of two. First-round picks if they pass. If a long-term fit emerges without busting the cap, great, but this tag keeps the key weapon in the fold while buying time to build around his unexpected impact. Unexpected impact. and