Cowboys franchise tag WR Pickens through 2026, securing him for future seasons

The Dallas Cowboys have placed the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens, securing his rights through at least 2026.

Why it matters: The decision to use the franchise tag guarantees Pickens a substantial salary of approximately $28 million in 2026 and ensures that the dynamic playmaker remains an integral part of the Cowboys’ offensive strategy moving forward.

What’s new: Pickens’ first season with the Cowboys was marked by impressive statistics, including 93 catches for 1,429 receiving yards and nine touchdowns.

• His performance earned him Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro honors.
• He set a franchise record by recording five games with at least 130 yards receiving and a touchdown catch.

Yes, but: While the franchise tag provides immediate financial security, both the team and Pickens are reportedly interested in reaching a long-term agreement.

• Executive vice president Stephen Jones indicated that the Cowboys were "leaning" toward using the franchise tag during discussions with Pickens' representatives at the NFL scouting combine.
• Coach Brian Schottenheimer expressed hope for a longer commitment, stating, "I hope so."

By the numbers: Pickens’ remarkable breakout season included noteworthy achievements that showcased his value:

• He had five games exceeding 100 receiving yards, two occurring during CeeDee Lamb's injuries.
• His 13 receptions of at least 25 yards and 73 first-down receptions ranked among the top five in the NFL.

Between the lines: The chemistry developed between Pickens and quarterback Dak Prescott has been pivotal to the offense, providing a significant boost to the Cowboys' passing attack and their overall competitiveness in the NFC.

What’s next: As the Cowboys move forward with negotiations, fans and analysts will be closely monitoring how they navigate their salary cap while trying to secure Pickens long-term, as well as how this decision impacts their draft strategy and overall roster construction.

The bottom line: By franchising George Pickens, the Cowboys not only preserve their investment in a rising star but also signal their intent to build a formidable offense capable of competing for championships in the coming seasons.