Cowboys have to answer one major George Pickens question

As expected, the Dallas Cowboys used the franchise tag to retain George Pickens early in free agency.

However, the saga is far from over. Pickens is unlikely to play under the $27.98 million franchise tag, knowing that he can make much more with a new contract.

Long-term financial security is also an issue with the tag, and with the Cowboys having until July 15 to sign him to a new deal, negotiations will likely pick up after the NFL Draft.

However, fellow NFL decision-makers aren't so sure an extension benefits Jerry Jones' team. Talking to The Athletic's Mike Sando, they questioned whether giving Pickens a new deal would be healthy for their finances.

The Cowboys may be better off without George Pickens

“What are they going to do with Pickens?” an exec asked Sando. “Are you going to have two receivers making (at least $34 million, CeeDee Lamb’s APY), plus the quarterback (Dak Prescott) making $60 million?”

Pickens was the best offensive player in Dallas last season and has a bright future. That said, he also has a volatile character, and they already have a true WR1.

The Cowboys gave up the most passing yards and points per game last season, so perhaps they should focus their efforts on getting better on that side of the field.

“Dallas is one of those spin-your-wheels type teams that never really gets a lot better,” an exec said.

Still, armed with two top-20 picks and with Jones vowing to be aggressive to improve the defense, maybe this team might be able to get the best of both worlds.