Overview
- Dallas placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on George Pickens for 2026, a one-year guarantee in the $27.2–$27.3 million range with matching rights or two first-round picks if an offer sheet is declined.
- Beat reporting says there have been no long-term negotiations to date, and the current expectation from some around the team is that Pickens could play on the tag, though the situation could change before camp.
- The deadline to sign a multi-year deal while tagged is July 15, and under the non-exclusive tag Pickens may negotiate with other clubs during free agency.
- Former All-Pro Le’Veon Bell publicly urged Pickens to play on the tag to keep working toward a deal, echoing a recent “bet on yourself” message from quarterback Dak Prescott.
- The Cowboys are reportedly hosting Indiana wideout Omar Cooper Jr. on a top-30 visit, which some view as insurance at receiver, and outside analysts have floated a possible trade as a scenario if talks don’t progress.