Cowboys Weigh Trade Options for Star WR Pickens

Franchise-tagged receiver could be dealt to Chiefs, Raiders or Chargers

Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:54pm

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A fractured, geometric painting in navy blue, silver, and white, depicting overlapping planes and shapes that abstractly represent a football game, conceptually illustrating the Dallas Cowboys' dilemma over trading away their star wide receiver.A cubist interpretation of the Dallas Cowboys' offensive strategy as they weigh trading away star wide receiver George Pickens.Dallas Today

The Dallas Cowboys have yet to reach a long-term extension with star wide receiver George Pickens, who had a breakout 2025 season with 1,429 yards and 9 touchdowns. With Pickens franchise-tagged, the team is now considering trading the 25-year-old Pro Bowler to the Chiefs, Raiders or Chargers in a potential blockbuster deal.

Why it matters

The Cowboys have historically been hesitant to pay top dollar for multiple star receivers, and owner Jerry Jones may be unwilling to commit to a mega-deal for Pickens alongside the team's high-priced quarterback. A trade could allow Dallas to recoup valuable draft capital and free up salary cap space.

The details

Pickens, a second-round pick in 2023, emerged as one of the NFL's elite receivers in 2025 with his career-best season. However, the Cowboys have yet to reach an agreement on a long-term extension, leading to speculation the team could look to trade the 25-year-old for the right price.

  • The Cowboys franchise-tagged Pickens earlier this offseason.

The players

George Pickens

A 25-year-old wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys who had a breakout 2025 season with 1,429 yards and 9 touchdowns.

Jerry Jones

The owner of the Dallas Cowboys, who may be unwilling to pay top dollar for multiple star receivers on the team's roster.

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The takeaway

The Cowboys' hesitation to lock up Pickens long-term could lead to a blockbuster trade, with the Chiefs, Raiders and Chargers among the potential suitors for the 25-year-old Pro Bowl receiver.