The Dallas Cowboys may be heading into a challenging negotiation period regarding wide receiver George Pickens. After an impressive performance this past season, which included 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, the Cowboys are keen on retaining him. Pickens, who joined the team from Pittsburgh, has proven to be a significant asset alongside CeeDee Lamb in the Cowboys” offense.
Pickens is currently celebrating his first Pro Bowl appearance, expressing excitement about being surrounded by fellow first-time Pro Bowl players. “It”s good. I feel like the energy for me being here — there are a lot of first-time Pro Bowl guys here and they”re with none of their teammates,” he said. “So for me, it”s special.”
With Pickens” market value surpassing $30 million annually, the Cowboys face a financial challenge. Team executives, including owner Jerry Jones and head coach Brian Schottenheimer, have indicated their desire to keep Pickens, but negotiations could be lengthy and complicated.
One option the Cowboys might consider is placing the franchise tag on Pickens if a long-term deal cannot be reached early in the offseason. The franchise tag period runs from February 17 to March 3, and if applied, Pickens would have until July 15 to negotiate a long-term contract. If no agreement is reached, he would play under a one-year deal projected at over $28 million for wide receivers.
While the franchise tag offers the Cowboys some security, it is not particularly favorable for players, as it restricts their ability to explore the open market. When asked about the possibility of the franchise tag, Pickens admitted, “I”m not really sure… I wouldn”t really know how to react. I would want to just be with the guys… all I can say is I hope for the best. I can”t really control the uncontrollables.”
Negotiations for contracts with the Cowboys have historically been tumultuous. Quarterback Dak Prescott has experienced this firsthand, signing his last extension just before the 2024 season opener. Similarly, Micah Parsons was traded after failing to agree on an extension. “It”s an every-year conversation,” Prescott noted, acknowledging the challenges players face during negotiations.
Reflecting on his successful first season with the Cowboys, Pickens shared his enthusiasm. “I feel like it was just ecstatic for me,” he said. “It was great. And that”s all I can really say because I”ve never been, me personally, on a team with a lot of guys that make the Pro Bowl. It was just great for me.”
Teammate KaVontae Turpin, also celebrating a Pro Bowl selection this year, expressed optimism for next season. He believes the receiving corps can further enhance their performance with another year of collaboration and the addition of talented players. “It can be explosive… If GP comes back, it”s going to be way better and more wide open,” Turpin stated.
As the Cowboys navigate these negotiations, the future of George Pickens remains a critical topic. The outcome will undoubtedly impact the team”s strategy moving forward.
