George Pickens sets clear contract demands for Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys kicked off the offseason on the right foot by keeping Javonte Williams around for the next three years. Now, they need to take care of business with star wide receiver George Pickens, their most prominent free agent.

Owner Jerry Jones has until March 3 to apply the franchise tag on the former Pittsburgh Steelers star, but he's not likely to play ball and just agree to play without a long-term deal.

According to Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News, Pickens' camp will push for a deal in the $30 million range. 

George Pickens wants $30 million a year in his new contract

"Getting off to a strong start in contract talks, regardless of whether the franchise tag is applied, is key to making sure Pickens reports on time for the offseason program and training camp in July," Watkins reported. "Pickens seeks a contract of at least $30 million per season, which isn’t out of line considering the franchise tag is projected at $28 million."

The Cowboys have more than enough reasons to have doubts about committing that much money on such a volatile player with a long history of temper tantrums and acting out. That said, he was their most productive offensive player last season, hauling in 93 catches on 137 targets for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns.

Still, with the Cowboys $24 million over the salary cap, they will need to do plenty of financial juggling to accommodate Pickens' contract on their books, with veterans like Kenny Clark and Malik Hooker as potential casualties.