Cowboys confirm they will place franchise tag on WR George Pickens
CBS Sports
by
Brent Brookhouse
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Dallas Cowboys have confirmed they will place the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens, signaling their intent to secure a long-term deal with the rising star. EVP Stephen Jones expressed confidence in Pickens' value to the team, stating that both parties are eager to reach an agreement before the July 15 deadline. The tagging window opened on February 17 and runs through March 3, with the potential for Pickens to earn a fully-guaranteed $28 million if he plays under the tag in 2026. Spotrac predicts that a long-term deal could average around $30.6 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid receivers in the NFL.
Pickens, acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers last offseason, had an outstanding season in 2023, catching 93 passes for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl selection. His impressive performance has solidified his status as a key player for the Cowboys. However, while tagging Pickens ensures he remains with the team for at least the upcoming season, it doesn’t guarantee he will stay beyond that. The Cowboys have reportedly considered both retaining him long-term and exploring trade possibilities.
Jerry Jones, the Cowboys’ owner, praised Pickens' potential and expressed excitement about his future with the team. "He's better than what he contributed to our team," Jones said, highlighting Pickens' ability to make a significant impact on the field. The franchise tag strategy reflects the Cowboys' commitment to building around their young star, while also providing time to negotiate a multi-year deal.
For sports fans and NFL enthusiasts, this move highlights the Cowboys' efforts to retain key talent and compete for championships. George Pickens’ potential as a game-changing wide receiver makes him a critical asset for the team, and his future with the Cowboys will be closely monitored by fans and analysts
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/23/2026