With Contract Talks Stalled, Cowboys’ Receiver Pickens Gets the Franchise Tag

Dallas missed the playoffs last year, but expectations are higher this year with an improved defense. ‘What’s important to me is winning,’ Pickens said.

George Pickens of the Dallas Cowboys walks off the field after a game against the Philadelphia Eagles at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Nov. 23, 2025. The Cowboys won 24-21. Stacy Revere/Getty Images

As star wide receiver George Pickens joined the Dallas Cowboys minicamp this week, he made it clear where he stands on playing with the franchise tag.

The Cowboys and Pickens couldn’t reach a deal this offseason, so Dallas put Pickens on the franchise tag for $27.298 million this year. That means his contract is guaranteed for one year at a salary fit for top players at his position. Pickens had a career year with the Cowboys last season with 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, which warranted a large contract.