Cowboys Weigh Options for Franchise-Tagged Pickens

Jerry Jones discusses potential long-term deal or playing on tag for star receiver

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:41am

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The Dallas Cowboys are considering their options for star wide receiver George Pickens, who was recently franchise-tagged by the team. Owner Jerry Jones hinted the Cowboys may want Pickens to play on the $27.3 million tag this season rather than sign him to a long-term deal, as his breakout 2025 campaign exceeded his previous career highs.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' decision on Pickens' contract could have significant implications for their salary cap and roster construction moving forward. Keeping him on the tag would provide more financial flexibility, but a long-term deal would lock in his services for the future.

The details

Jones said the team has not yet started negotiations on a long-term deal for Pickens, who had 93 catches for 1,429 yards and 9 touchdowns last season. The Cowboys may want to see more consistent production from the 25-year-old receiver before committing to a lucrative multi-year contract.

  • The Cowboys placed the franchise tag on Pickens in March 2026.

The players

Jerry Jones

Owner of the Dallas Cowboys.

George Pickens

Star wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys who was recently franchise-tagged by the team.

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What they’re saying

“I've looked at that mirror a lot about how to go up and down and trade and do those kinds of things, and absolutely will entertain improving on what gives us a better chance to get another player and still have our pick in the red meat of top players.”

— Jerry Jones, Owner

“Yeah, (offensive coordinator) Clayton (Adams) knocks on my door every night before he leaves. He's like, 'Hey, Shotty, remember me? Over here? Yeah, I'm the guy in that office right over there.' What I love about the draft and this whole process is the unpredictability of it.”

— Brian Schottenheimer, Head Coach

What’s next

The Cowboys will continue to evaluate their options for Pickens, including the possibility of signing him to a long-term deal or keeping him on the franchise tag for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' decision on Pickens' contract will be a key storyline to watch as the team looks to build on its success and address defensive needs in the upcoming draft and free agency.