The Dallas Cowboys have applied the 2026 franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens, a move widely expected as a procedural step while contract negotiations continue. Pickens received a non-exclusive tag, allowing him to negotiate with other teams, though Dallas retains the right to match any offer. If the Cowboys choose not to match, the acquiring team must compensate Dallas with two first-round draft picks.
Pickens is the first player tagged by the Cowboys since running back Tony Pollard in 2023 and tight end Dalton Schultz in 2022. Previous stars, including Dak Prescott and DeMarcus Lawrence, were tagged twice before reaching new agreements. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer emphasized that the tag does not affect his relationship with Pickens, framing it as part of the business side of the NFL while reaffirming Pickens’ love for the game.
Dallas Cowboys Franchise Tag George Pickens as Contract Talks Extend Into SummerPickens’ Contract Talks Continue Amid Cowboys’ Cap, Performance, And Long-Term Planning
Negotiations will continue through mid-summer, ahead of the NFL’s deadline for new contract extensions. If a deal is not reached, Pickens will play the 2026 season under a fully guaranteed one-year salary of $27.3 million.
Pickens enjoyed a breakout 2025 campaign after being acquired via trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers. He recorded 1,429 receiving yards, a career-high nine touchdowns, and earned his first Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections. With Dak Prescott at quarterback, CeeDee Lamb on the field, and Javonte Williams providing a strong running attack, Pickens became a central figure in the Cowboys’ offense.
Securing a long-term deal benefits both sides. Pickens gains stability and cements his role in a locker room led by Prescott and Lamb, while the Cowboys relieve the $28 million cap hit and lock in one of the league’s elite wide receivers. Both parties now face a limited window to determine Pickens’ contract situation for 2026 and beyond.
