TL;DR
- George Pickens has exceeded expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, becoming a key offensive asset.
- Dallas Cowboys are strongly considering a contract extension for George Pickens, who is happy with the team.
- A franchise tag around $28 million is a possibility for Pickens if a long-term deal isn't reached.
- The Cowboys face financial challenges but can prioritize re-signing Pickens to a deal potentially over $30 million annually.
Dallas Cowboys receiver George Pickens has been exactly what the franchise wanted him to be when they traded for him in the offseason.
While it's improbable anyone anticipated Pickens performing at an almost All-Pro standard, it's undeniable that he's currently Brian Schottenheimer's most potent offensive asset heading into the Thanksgiving holiday.
Consequently, George's future has been intensely debated, with Schottenheimer, Dak Prescott, and Jerry Jones all expressing their admiration for Pickens and their desire for him to stay with The Cowboys past 2025.
This isn't a novel development, and we're aware that a franchise tag around $28 million is also a possibility in this situation.
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler has detailed Dallas' strong interest in Pickens regarding a potential offseason contract extension.
The Cowboys are seriously considering a contract extension for Pickens, who is content in Dallas, having secured 67 receptions for 1,054 yards and 8 touchdowns across 11 contests." Fowler writes. "However, formal negotiations for an extended agreement haven't commenced as it's still premature. Dallas isn't deterred by the potential franchise tag figure, estimated to be around $28 million in 2026, but has yet to decide on its application, as it's still early.
The absence of concern regarding that figure highlights the considerable interest in Pickens during the offseason.
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The Cowboys face a significant decision regarding Pickens this offseason.
It's understood that the Cowboys have significant financial commitments to CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott, in addition to Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark, and Osa Odighizuwa, who are all earning close to market-leading salaries.
It's challenging to fit Pickens under the salary cap with a deal of at least $30 million annually, but the Cowboys can achieve this if they prioritize it.
Granted, a franchise tag next season could be the play here, with the Cowboys wanting to see George back it up for another season before signing him to a long-term deal.
There's a lot to consider, and this too. Should Dallas re-sign Pickens and retain Javonte Williams, their offense would be complete, allowing the front office to concentrate entirely on defense during free agency and the draft in the upcoming offseason.
This Pickens decision will tell us a lot about the Cowboys' front office folks.
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