Cowboys' stunning George Pickens choice increases chances of trade

"We're thrilled that George is here and we expect him to have another big year, like he did last year, and that's not gonna change," the coach said, per Patrik Walker of the team website. 

The Cowboys' refusal to negotiate with Pickens, however, should raise eyebrows. It puts them at risk of losing another star after trading defensive end Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers following a contract dispute last offseason. 

Why George Pickens update may remind some of Micah Parsons situation

Pickens has yet to sign his franchise tender with the Cowboys. The deadline to sign franchise-tagged players is July 15 at 4 p.m. ET. Per CBS Sports, he'd miss out on roughly $1.52M per week if he doesn't sign the weeks leading up to the regular season in September. 

The update may convince the WR to request a trade. He would attract multiple suitors after a career year. 2022 second-round pick Pickens etched career highs in receptions (93), receiving yards (1,429) and touchdown catches (nine) last season, earning a second-team All-Pro nod. 

The WR reportedly caused headaches during his first three seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite that, plenty of needy teams (Kansas City Chiefs) would still be willing to pay a pass-catcher of his talent.

Dallas may be banking on Pickens accepting the tag, as quarterback Dak Prescott did in 2020 and former running back Tony Pollard did in 2023. Prescott signed an extension the following offseason, while Pollard joined the Tennessee Titans in 2024. 

One would think that after the Parsons debacle last offseason, the Cowboys would want to avoid another standoff with one of their stars. But some things never change in Dallas. 

The Cowboys are taking another big risk in assuming Pickens will sign the tag. They'd better hope it works out, or else they may lose another star player for a second consecutive year.