Cowboys keep Pickens on franchise tag; draft surprises
Read, Watch or Listen
FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys announced Wednesday that they will not negotiate a long-term contract with wide receiver George Pickens and expect him to play under the franchise tag for the 2026 season, executive vice president Stephen Jones said at the club’s pre-draft news conference, citing organizational precedent and roster plans. Pickens is reported to plan to sign the $27.3 million one-year, fully guaranteed tender this week, which allows him to participate in offseason programs beginning Monday but limits long-term negotiation options before the July 15 extension deadline; trade speculation surfaced two hours before the draft, but Jones publicly denied any intent to move the receiver.
Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- March: Team places $27.3 million nonexclusive franchise tag on George Pickens.
- Last week: Cowboys reportedly inform Pickens' agent, David Mulugheta, they will not negotiate a long-term deal.
- Wednesday (pre-draft): Stephen Jones says the club will not pursue an extension.
- Thursday (two hours before the draft): Reports indicate Pickens plans to sign the franchise tender.
- July 15: Deadline for teams and players to reach a long-term extension after tagging.
News Intelligence
- If you're a Cowboys fan, this is big. Pickens staying on the franchise tag means he's locked in for the 2026 season. But it also limits his long-term future with the team. Watch for any changes before the July 15 extension deadline.
- Articles Published:
- 4
- Right Leaning:
- 0
- Left Leaning:
- 0
- Neutral:
- 4
- Distribution:
- Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%
The Dallas Cowboys retained roster control and salary-cap flexibility by keeping George Pickens under the $27.3 million franchise tag, allowing the team to utilize his on-field contributions without committing to a multi-year contract this offseason.
George Pickens faces constrained long-term security and earning potential this offseason, with a one-year fully guaranteed $27.3 million tender and limited negotiation opportunities before the July 15 extension deadline.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
No left-leaning sources found for this story.
From Center
Cowboys keep Pickens on franchise tag; draft surprises
The New York Times ESPN.com Idaho State Journal The New York TimesFrom Right
No right-leaning sources found for this story.
Comments