Dallas Cowboys use franchise tag on George Pickens to secure rights
The Dallas Cowboys are set to place the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens, securing his immediate future with the franchise through the 2026 season.
The decision guarantees the 24-year-old approximately $28m (£22.3m) for the upcoming campaign.
While the tag binds the player to the roster for another year, the possibility of negotiating a long-term extension remains open.
Talks continue at Combine
Representatives for the NFC East club met with the player’s agents at the NFL Scouting Combine on Thursday.
Sources indicate the discussions were general in nature rather than an in-depth negotiation of terms.
Executive vice-president Stephen Jones had previously stated the organisation was “leaning” toward utilising the tag earlier in the week.
When asked on Thursday if the receiver could remain a Cowboy for the long term, head coach Brian Schottenheimer was optimistic.
“I hope so,” Schottenheimer said.
Instant impact in Texas
Since arriving via trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers, the playmaker has enjoyed a stellar debut campaign at AT&T Stadium.
The move involved exchanging late-round draft picks, a deal that has paid immediate dividends for Dallas.
He recorded career highs in receptions (93), receiving yards (1,429) and touchdowns (nine) while playing in every fixture.
These performances earned the former University of Georgia standout a first Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro honours.
He developed instant chemistry with quarterback Dak Prescott, notably stepping up when fellow wideout CeeDee Lamb was sidelined with a high ankle sprain.
The receiver set a new franchise record by registering five games with at least 130 receiving yards and a touchdown catch.
Financial hurdles ahead
Securing the talented pass-catcher on a permanent basis could present challenges for the Cowboys’ salary cap management.
Lamb signed a massive extension in 2024 worth $34m annually, a deal that included $100m in guaranteed money.
The front office may be reluctant to commit similar figures to a second receiver as they look to balance the roster over the coming seasons.