The Dallas Cowboys used the franchise tag on George Pickens, and he can cash in during 2027 free agency if he lives up to the hype.
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens reacts during the game against the Philadelphia Eagles. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect During the 2025 offseason, it was clear that the Dallas Cowboys needed a No. 2 wide receiver to play alongside CeeDee Lamb.
After the NFL draft concluded without the Cowboys finding a wideout, they decided to look to the trade market.with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pickens came over with plenty of questions about his character and motivation, but he was an ideal player and teammate during the 2025 season with the Cowboys. Pickens not only proved to be an excellent starter opposite Lamb, but he moved seamlessly into the WR1 role whenearly in the year.
Now entering the 2026 season, Pickens comes in at No. 5 on our list of the top 10 players on the roster. That said, let's take a quick look at what he did in 2025, as well as what the team should expect during the 2026 season. Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens runs with the ball during the second half against the Carolina Panthers.
| IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect Pickens made an immediate impact with the Cowboys, becoming one of Dak Prescott's favorite targets right out of the gate. He ended up leading the team in every major receiving category, finishing withHis performance was enough that the Cowboys, wanted to keep him around, but they still wanted to see more from him before offering a long-term contract.
That's why , and while Pickens has made it no secret that he wants more security, he still showed up to mandatory minicamp and has his sights set on proving he deserves a big payday during 2027 free agency. Dallas Cowboys WR George Pickens goes through a drill during practice at the Ford Center at the Star Training Facility. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect Pickens enters 2026 with even more comfort in the offense.
That means his rapport with Prescott, which was already impressive last year, will be even better. Not only will he have continuity on his side, but Pickens will also have more motivation than ever. He proved during his first year with the Cowboys that many of his character concerns might have been blown out of proportion, but it still wasn't enough for him to earn a multi-year deal.
Now, Pickens wants to prove that not only can he repeat the success he showed on the field in 2025, but that he can also continue to be a good teammate. If he does that, there's no reason not to believe that he will secure a contract somewhere near $40 million per season. The only question is if Dallas will be willing to pay that, or if he will hit the open market.
Please follow us on Google to support usUnited States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News: You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Deadline passes for Cowboys, George Pickens to reach long-term contract extensionThe extension deadline has passed, so George Pickens is set to play 2026 on a one-year, fully guaranteed $27.3 million deal.
Read more »
What Was the Dallas Cowboys Best and Worst Offseason Move?The Dallas Cowboys were busy this offseason, but what stands out as their best move as well as their worst?
Read more »
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders' Strict Policy on Tattoos and MakeupThe Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders have a strict policy regarding tattoos and makeup for their dancers. Emily, a former cruise ship dancer, revealed in a video that she had two pieces of ink on one hand and used DermaBlend leg and body makeup to cover it.
Read more »
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders 2026-2027: Who’s New and Who’s Returning?The squad includes some “comeback girls” seen in “America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders” Season 3.
Read more »