Overview
- The Dallas Morning News reported no contract discussions have been held with Pickens’ agent, even as the team has initiated preliminary conversations with running back Javonte Williams.
- Multiple outlets view the franchise tag as Dallas’ likely short-term move, with the wide receiver tag projected around $28–$29 million and the application window running Feb. 17–Mar. 3 before a July 15 deadline for a long-term deal.
- Pickens said he would love to stay in Dallas, believes his price “went up” after an All-Pro 2025 season, and noted he has not personally spoken with team officials about an extension.
- Dak Prescott called retaining Pickens “vital” and said he would get involved if needed, and team executive Stephen Jones has signaled interest in keeping the receiver after defensive coordinator interviews reinforced his value.
- Dallas’ cap crunch and documented discipline/timeliness issues are factors in structuring a multi-year deal, and reporting notes Pickens’ Athletes First representation and the team’s recent Parsons saga as context for a tag-first approach.