The Dallas Cowboys are set to place the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. This move will prevent Pickens from entering free agency and secure him for the team at a cost of about $28 million for one year. The decision comes after a strong season for Pickens in Dallas following his trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Dallas Cowboys plan to use the franchise tag on Pro Bowl wide receiver George Pickens, as reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter on February 8, 2026. This action, which opens on February 17 and closes on March 3, will keep Pickens from the open market as a free agent. The one-year deal is projected to cost the Cowboys roughly $28 million.
Pickens was traded from the Pittsburgh Steelers to Dallas last May in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick, with Pittsburgh also sending a 2027 sixth-round pick. In his first season with the Cowboys, Pickens recorded 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, marking his best statistical output to date. He earned his first Pro Bowl selection and a second-team All-Pro honor.
Prior to the trade, Pickens spent three challenging seasons in Pittsburgh, where his talent for spectacular catches was overshadowed by issues including a prickly attitude, tardiness, and frequent frustration. The Steelers had already committed to wide receiver DK Metcalf, acquiring him from the Seattle Seahawks in a blockbuster deal for a second-round pick and signing him to a $150 million contract. This move signaled no long-term plans for Pickens, prompting the trade.
In Dallas, Pickens continued to show some behavioral concerns, including questionable effort and sideline outbursts, but he became a vital part of the passing attack alongside CeeDee Lamb, forming one of the NFL's top duos. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has expressed ongoing interest in a long-term extension, potentially exceeding $30 million per season. The franchise tag serves as a protective measure amid a competitive receiver market, buying time for negotiations. While players often view the tag unfavorably due to its restrictions, Dallas appears committed to retaining Pickens.
