Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Cowboys Take First Step Towards Keeping George Pickens

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Feb 27, 2026 10:10 AM ET

To the surprise of absolutely no one, the Dallas Cowboys don't plan on losing All-Pro wide receiver George Pickens this offseason.

Less than a year ago, "America's Team" acquired Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick from the Pittsburgh Steelers for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round. It didn't take long to determine that Dallas won that trade.

Pickens was outstanding for the Cowboys during the 2025 season, hauling in 93 passes for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. At times, he formed an unstoppable wide receiver duo with CeeDee Lamb.

The timing of Pickens' breakout season was perfect since he's set to be a free agent. That being said, it doesn't sound like he'll hit the open market.

According to Jori Epstein of Yahoo! Sports, the Cowboys plan on placing the franchise tag on Pickens. The former Georgia star would earn around $27-28 million if he plays next season on the tag.

Nov 27, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3) celebrates after catching a pass for a successful two-point conversion against the Kansas City Chiefs during the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

What would a long-term deal look like for Pickens?

Epstein is hearing that a multi-year deal for Pickens would most likely feature a salary of at least $30 million.

"Executives from several teams predicted any multiyear deal for Pickens would need to start at $30 million, some even predicting an average annual salary as high as $36 million per year. That number notably would surpass Lamb’s $34 million per year, potentially complicating the 1A-1B relationship Lamb and Pickens have developed," Epstein wrote. "A starting point for negotiations could factor in the cost of the franchise tag over the next two seasons, though exact numbers require more clarity on the salary cap. The NFL and NFLPA met Thursday to discuss the final 2026 salary cap number, which is expected to land between $301 and $305 million."

Ja'Marr Chase is currently the highest-paid wideout with a salary of $40.25 million. While we doubt Pickens tops that number, he's due to make a lot of money this offseason.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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