Cowboys Headlines: Groundwork laid for George Pickens tag year; Jermod McCoy nails pro day

Jerry Jones hints at franchise tag for Pickens, while Tennessee CB Jermod McCoy impresses at pro day

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:07am

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In the latest Cowboys news, team owner Jerry Jones hinted at using the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens, while Tennessee cornerback prospect Jermod McCoy had a standout performance at his pro day, boosting his draft stock.

Why it matters

The potential franchise tag for Pickens could impact the Cowboys' long-term plans at the wide receiver position, while McCoy's pro day showing could make him an early-round target for teams in need of secondary help, potentially affecting the Cowboys' draft strategy at pick No. 12.

The details

Jones suggested the Cowboys have 'long-term plans' for Pickens but also didn't sound enthusiastic about paying more than the $27.3 million franchise tag price. Meanwhile, McCoy impressed scouts with his 40-yard dash time, vertical jump, and broad jump at Tennessee's pro day, solidifying his status as a potential first-round pick.

  • On March 31, 2026, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones commented on the team's plans for George Pickens and the franchise tag.
  • On the same day, Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy participated in his pro day workout.

The players

George Pickens

A talented wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys who is coming off his best season and could be a franchise tag candidate.

Jermod McCoy

A cornerback prospect from the University of Tennessee who had an impressive pro day workout, boosting his draft stock.

Jerry Jones

The owner of the Dallas Cowboys who discussed the team's plans for George Pickens and the franchise tag.

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What they’re saying

“We've got long-term plans for George Pickens. But you know, the franchise tag is a good thing too.”

— Jerry Jones, Owner, Dallas Cowboys

What’s next

The Cowboys will need to decide whether to use the franchise tag on George Pickens by the March 5th deadline. Jermod McCoy's impressive pro day performance will likely lead to him being selected early in the upcoming NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' handling of George Pickens' contract situation and Jermod McCoy's rise as a top cornerback prospect are two key storylines to watch as the NFL offseason progresses.