As the trade deadline approaches, the Dallas Cowboys are reportedly leaning towards using the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens. This decision comes as Pickens enters the final year of his current contract. A recent report highlighted the Cowboys” desire to secure Pickens” rights, especially as the team aims to remain competitive in the playoff race.
ESPN”s Dan Graziano discussed Pickens” future with the Cowboys, noting, “I believe there”s a strong likelihood that the Cowboys franchise Pickens, assuming they remain as happy with him by the end of the season as they”ve been so far.” Graziano also pointed out that many top potential free agents do not reach the market due to extensions or franchise tags.
Prior to the November 4 trade deadline, Pickens was a topic of speculation regarding his future with the team, especially after the Cowboys suffered a disappointing loss to the Arizona Cardinals, which dropped their record to 3-5-1. Despite this setback, Dallas opted to be active in the trade market, acquiring defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and linebacker Logan Wilson.
Statistically, Pickens has had a strong season, leading the Cowboys with 764 receiving yards and six touchdown catches, which ties him with tight end Jake Ferguson. He also ranks second on the team with 49 receptions and has received 72 targets this season.
NFL insider Jeremy Fowler added that Pickens has been impressive, mentioning, “The talent is off the charts. Pickens is on pace for 1,400-plus yards and 10 receiving touchdowns in his first season in Dallas, providing the perfect complement to CeeDee Lamb.” While there were concerns about the financial implications of franchise tagging a second wide receiver after Lamb signed a significant extension, there is no indication that owner and general manager Jerry Jones is prepared to undertake a roster rebuild in the near future.
For now, Pickens and the Cowboys are focused on their upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders, who currently hold a 2-7 record. As of Wednesday morning, the Cowboys were favored by 3.5 points in this matchup.
