Cowboys say they are leaning toward using franchise tag on receiver George Pickens - AP News
AP News
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly considering using the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens as they aim to retain his services ahead of the 2024 NFL season. This strategic move reflects the team’s commitment to building around their young talent while addressing potential departures in their receiving corps. The franchise tag would allow the Cowboys to place a significant financial valuation on Pickens, ensuring he remains under contract for at least one more year while negotiations continue.
Pickens, who joined the Cowboys as a third-round draft pick in 2023, has shown promise as a rising star in the NFL. Despite limited opportunities due to an injury-plagued season and competition for targets, Pickens demonstrated flashes of brilliance that caught the attention of both coaches and fans. His ability to make plays downfield and his potential to develop into a consistent threat in the offense makes him a valuable asset for the team.
By leaning toward the franchise tag, the Cowboys are signaling their intent to invest in Pickens’ long-term future while maintaining flexibility in their roster construction. This decision could also serve as a motivational tool for Pickens, encouraging him to perform at an even higher level in upcoming seasons. For fans of the Cowboys, this move underscores the organization’s focus on building a competitive team with a strong core of young players.
The franchise tag is a powerful tool in the NFL, allowing teams to retain key players without immediately committing to long-term contracts. For the Cowboys, using it on Pickens would prevent other teams from pursuing him via free agency and provide a clear path for negotiations as both sides work toward a long-term deal. This approach aligns with the team’s overall strategy of developing talent from within while remaining financially disciplined.
In the broader context of the NFL, the Cowboys’ decision to focus on retaining young players like Pickens highlights the importance of player development and organizational stability. As the league continues to evolve, teams are increasingly prioritizing homegrown talent to sustain competitive rosters. For the Cowboys, this move could pay dividends in the form of a more cohesive and dynamic offense in the years to come.
Ultimately, the Cowboys’ reported inclination to use the franchise tag on George Pickens speaks volumes about their commitment to building a winning team.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/23/2026