BREAKING: Sources reveal George Pickens’ shocking fate as Cowboys stand at a crossroads that could change everything.QQ
The Dallas Cowboys are at a crossroads with star wide receiver George Pickens, whose stellar performance this season has sparked intense discussions about his long-term future with the team. Acquired in a blockbuster trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason, Pickens has not only met but exceeded expectations, positioning himself as a key asset in the Cowboys’ offense. However, as contract negotiations loom, insiders suggest the situation could turn contentious, with the franchise tag emerging as a potential flashpoint.
Pickens, who was traded to Dallas in May 2025 for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick, has been a revelation in his new environment. Entering Week 13, he boasts career highs with 67 receptions and 8 receiving touchdowns. He’s also just 86 yards shy of his personal best in receiving yards, currently sitting at 1,054 through 11 games. These numbers underscore his impact, especially alongside fellow wideout CeeDee Lamb, where Pickens has proven himself as a legitimate WR1 option.
More than the stats, Pickens has shed the off-field drama that occasionally overshadowed his tenure in Pittsburgh. Described as an exemplary teammate, he’s shouldered the aerial attack when needed, earning praise from coaches and peers alike. This turnaround has fueled Dallas’ interest in securing him beyond his current deal, which expires after the 2025 season.
However, the path forward isn’t straightforward. ESPN insiders Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano recently weighed in on the matter, highlighting the complexities involved. Fowler noted that while the Cowboys could opt for the franchise tag—projected at over $28 million for 2026—to retain Pickens, it might not sit well with the receiver or his camp.
“A tag would be fascinating, because while some players embrace it, my sense is Pickens’ camp would strongly prefer a long-term contract. But it would give Dallas the flexibility to negotiate with Pickens through the offseason or potentially execute a sign-and-trade,” Fowler explained.
Graziano echoed concerns about potential friction, pointing to Pickens’ agent, David Mulugheta—the same representative involved in the stalled Micah Parsons negotiations earlier this year. While Graziano doesn’t believe that history will directly influence talks, he anticipates Dallas’ front office invoking salary cap constraints as a bargaining chip.
“I don’t think the Parsons situation will have any effect on the Pickens negotiations. But the Cowboys always cite long-term salary cap concerns when confronted with another big-money negotiation. With Lamb, Prescott, Odighizuwa, and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams all signed for big numbers, I’m sure you’re going to hear that stuff from Jerry Jones again,” Graziano stated.
He added that Dallas might pursue a long-term deal if Pickens agrees to a “team-favorable” structure, akin to DeVonta Smith’s role opposite A.J. Brown in Philadelphia. Yet, given Pickens’ elite production, Graziano believes the receiver will aim higher: “I believe Dallas would do a long-term deal with Pickens if he would do it for a team-favorable number—if he wanted to be the DeVonta Smith to Lamb’s A.J. Brown, for example. But to your point, Jeremy, I imagine Pickens has his sights set higher. The way he has played, he ought to.”
The stakes are high. Pickens’ ability to thrive as a top target, even in a stacked receiver room, makes him a hot commodity. Teams desperate to bolster their passing games would likely overlook any past red flags from his Steelers days and offer top-dollar contracts. For the Cowboys, the decision boils down to whether owner Jerry Jones is willing to meet Pickens’ market value or risk alienating a burgeoning star.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how this unfolds. A franchise tag could provide short-term security but might sour relations, leading to a holdout or trade demand. Conversely, a fair extension could solidify Dallas’ offense for years to come. With Week 13 approaching, the Cowboys face a major decision that could define their trajectory.
