The Dallas Cowboys are at a crucial juncture regarding the future of wide receiver George Pickens. After a breakout season, he is poised to secure a significant contract. As the NFL franchise tag window approaches, the organization is reportedly considering using the tag to prevent him from entering free agency. However, analysts are warning that the situation may be more complicated than it seems.
Insiders suggest that the Cowboys are likely to apply the franchise tag to Pickens, which would bind him to a one-year deal valued at around $28 million. The franchise tag window opens on February 17 and closes on March 3. This strategy would allow Jerry Jones to maintain control over one of his most explosive offensive players for the upcoming season.
Pickens had a stellar year, posting 93 receptions on 137 targets for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns after joining the Cowboys. His chemistry with fellow receiver CeeDee Lamb transformed the Cowboys” passing game into one of the most formidable in the league, creating numerous challenges for opposing defenses.
However, during a recent discussion, NFL analysts suggested a more intricate approach. While they acknowledged the likelihood of tagging Pickens, there was also a proposition to tag him and subsequently trade him for valuable draft picks, possibly a second-round selection. Analysts described this potential return as “incredible value,” referencing the Cowboys” history of trading star talent for draft assets. Still, they urged caution.
“I understand the appeal of that scenario,” one analyst remarked. “You would look at it and see it as a net positive. Yet, at some point, you”re acquiring players with the hope they will contribute to a potential championship team. You hinder that goal by continuously trading them away.”
The primary aim for the Cowboys remains to capture the Lombardi Trophy, a feat that has eluded the franchise for three decades. The risk of moving on from Pickens could jeopardize the offensive continuity and disrupt the progress made through his synergy with Lamb. Reports indicate that the Cowboys are determined to prevent Pickens from testing free agency this offseason. Applying the franchise tag would allow for more time to negotiate a long-term deal while maintaining roster stability.
However, the franchise tag comes with financial consequences, consuming a significant portion of the salary cap and potentially complicating future roster management strategies.
