Cowboys Eyeing Standout USC Receiver Amid Pickens Uncertainty

Dallas looking at Makai Lemon as potential replacement for franchise-tagged George Pickens

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:49pm

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The Dallas Cowboys are exploring options at wide receiver, including meeting with USC standout Makai Lemon, as they face uncertainty around a long-term deal with star receiver George Pickens, who was given the non-exclusive franchise tag.

Why it matters

The Cowboys need to plan for the future at receiver, with Pickens' future in Dallas uncertain beyond the 2027 season. Lemon is a highly coveted prospect who could provide a dynamic playmaking option if the team is unable to retain Pickens long-term.

The details

The Cowboys' wide receiver coach Junior Adams attended USC's pro day to watch Lemon, who ran a 40-yard dash time of 4.48 seconds. Lemon is expected to be a first-round pick, with the Los Angeles Rams projected to select him at No. 13, one spot behind the Cowboys' pick at No. 12. The New York Giants have also met with Lemon and will host him for an official 30-day visit.

  • The Cowboys placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on George Pickens in 2026.
  • Makai Lemon had his best college season in 2025, recording 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns at USC.

The players

George Pickens

A star wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys who had a breakout season in 2026, recording 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and 9 touchdowns.

Makai Lemon

A highly coveted wide receiver prospect from USC, who is expected to be a first-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft after a standout college career.

Junior Adams

The wide receiver coach for the Dallas Cowboys who attended USC's pro day to scout Makai Lemon.

Tony Pauline

A reporter for Essentially Sports who reported on the Cowboys' interest in Makai Lemon.

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What they’re saying

“Per Tony Pauline of Essentially Sports, Cowboys wide receiver coach Junior Adams was in attendance for USC's pro day to watch Makai Lemon.”

— Tony Pauline, Reporter (Essentially Sports)

What’s next

The Cowboys will continue to evaluate their options at wide receiver, including potentially selecting Makai Lemon in the first round of the 2027 NFL Draft if they are unable to reach a long-term deal with George Pickens.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' interest in Makai Lemon highlights the uncertainty surrounding George Pickens' future in Dallas beyond the 2027 season. The team is proactively exploring options to bolster their receiving corps, showcasing their commitment to maintaining a potent offense.