George Pickens, Dallas Cowboys finally settle franchise tag saga
The waiting is over for George Pickens and the Dallas Cowboys. Pickens has officially signed his franchise tender for the 2026 NFL season, putting an end to months of speculation about his contract situation and ensuring he’ll be in Dallas for at least one more year. MORE: NFL Power Rankings after the 2026 NFL Draft A Deal That Was Always Expected According to reports from Todd Archer, Pickens signed the $27.
3 million franchise tag after it became clear the Cowboys were not pursuing a long-term extension this offseason. Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones had already indicated the team expected Pickens to play on the tag in 2026. Both sides had until July 15 to negotiate a long-term deal, but that now appears unlikely, at least for the time being.
Dec 25, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3) celebrates after a play against the Washington Commanders during the first half at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images What the Signing Means By signing the tender, Pickens: Is now under contract for the 2026 season Can fully participate in offseason activities, which begin Monday Avoids potential fines tied to missing mandatory minicamp or training camp It also provides clarity for a Cowboys offense that relies heavily on his production. Coming Off a Breakout Season Pickens earned the franchise tag after delivering a career year in Dallas: 93 receptions 1,429 receiving yards 9 touchdowns Acquired in a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers last offseason, he quickly became a centerpiece of one of the league’s most explosive offenses.
Alongside CeeDee Lamb, who is entering the second year of a four-year, $136 million contract, Pickens helped form one of the most dangerous receiving duos in the NFL. Nov 23, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receivers George Pickens (3) and CeeDee Lamb (88) react during the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images A Big Payday—and a Bigger Opportunity Financially, the decision makes plenty of sense.
Pickens will earn $27. 3 million guaranteed this season, a massive jump from the roughly $6. 8 million total he made during his rookie contract.