DALLAS COWBOYS FACING A TOUGH DECISION ON GEORGE PICKENS’ FREE AGENCY: CEEDEE LAMB SUPPORTS HIS COUNTERPART, BUT HOW WILL THE COWBOYS HANDLE IT?
BREAKING NEWS: The Dallas Cowboys are facing a critical offseason decision with wide receiver George Pickens entering free agency. After a career-best 2025 season, Pickens is poised to earn a substantial payday, potentially more than his teammate, CeeDee Lamb, who is already making $34 million per year. As the Cowboys prepare for what could be a huge contract negotiation, Lamb’s response to the situation speaks volumes about his mindset and the team’s future direction.
The Dallas Cowboys’ receiving corps has been a key part of their offensive success in recent seasons, and much of that success can be attributed to the dynamic duo of CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. Lamb, who signed a four-year, $136 million extension before the 2024 season, has solidified himself as one of the league’s top wideouts. However, Pickens’ breakout 2025 season, which saw him rack up 1,429 receiving yards (the third-most in the league) and nine touchdowns, has made him a highly sought-after player heading into free agency.
With Pickens set to hit the open market, there’s a chance he could command a contract comparable to, or even larger than, Lamb’s. The question now is how Lamb feels about his counterpart potentially earning more money than him, especially considering how integral both players are to the Cowboys’ offense.
CeeDee Lamb’s Unselfish Approach to Pickens’ Pending Payday
When asked about the possibility of Pickens surpassing him in terms of salary, Lamb’s response was both gracious and unselfish. Speaking at the Super Bowl’s radio row on San Antonio’s Sports Star radio station, Lamb made it clear that he has no issues with Pickens earning more if that’s what he deserves.
“I don’t care about that, I just want my man to get what he deserves,” Lamb said. “As for me, I know I’m good. I’m fine. Me and my family, we’re straight, and I just want to compete at the highest level and I want to compete for a ring.”
Lamb’s words reflect his team-first mentality and his focus on the bigger picture. While it’s clear he’s content with his own financial security, Lamb’s main priority is winning a championship with the Cowboys. His selflessness highlights the strong bond between him and Pickens, and it’s a testament to the leadership role he plays on the team. Lamb’s willingness to put the team ahead of personal accolades speaks volumes about his character.
The Dynamic Duo: Lamb and Pickens’ Historic 2025 Season
Lamb and Pickens’ success on the field in 2025 speaks for itself. Together, they combined for an impressive 2,506 receiving yards, which accounted for more than half of the Cowboys’ total passing offense that season. This type of production is rare, and it’s part of why both players are poised to earn major paydays. Lamb’s 1,478 yards and 10 touchdowns complemented Pickens’ breakout year, and the duo proved to be one of the most dynamic tandems in the NFL.
Lamb’s words about the importance of playing well and letting the money take care of itself are a reflection of the duo’s overall mindset. He believes in letting the performance on the field dictate the future, rather than focusing on contracts. This mentality not only strengthens their bond but also sets the tone for the rest of the team as they head into the offseason.
Cowboys’ Desire to Keep Pickens in Dallas
As the offseason unfolds, the Cowboys’ front office is determined to keep Pickens in Dallas for the long term. During the Senior Bowl in Mobile, COO/co-owner Stephen Jones confirmed that the team is committed to bringing Pickens back. The Cowboys are in a position where they need to lock up their top offensive weapons, and keeping Pickens is a priority for maintaining the team’s offensive potency.
“Certainly, we want George to be part of this team moving forward,” Jones said.
Pickens, for his part, has expressed a desire to stay with the Cowboys but understands that the decision is out of his hands. During his appearance at the Pro Bowl, Pickens emphasized that he would “love to” remain with the team, but ultimately, the process is something he can’t control. He has stated that he’s open to whatever is best for both parties involved, showing a professional and level-headed approach to his future.
“Just the ultimate best deal when it helps everybody…” Pickens said. “If it’s the best thing for both parties, then I’m willing to do anything. But like I said, I can’t control it, so I just kind of chill.”
Pickens’ maturity and willingness to work with the Cowboys on finding a mutually beneficial solution are admirable, especially for such a young player. His focus on what’s best for the team demonstrates his commitment to both his career and the organization.
What’s Next for Pickens and the Cowboys?
The next few weeks will be crucial in determining the future of George Pickens and the Cowboys’ offense. While the team is hopeful that they can retain him, they will likely have to contend with several other teams interested in acquiring the young receiver. Given Pickens’ breakout 2025 season and his potential to be a true No. 1 receiver in the NFL, his market value is expected to be high.
The Cowboys have the resources to make a competitive offer, but the decision ultimately depends on whether they can reach a deal that works for both sides. Pickens could be in line for a contract that mirrors or exceeds Lamb’s, and the Cowboys will have to weigh their options carefully as they look to lock up their young stars.
The Future of the Cowboys’ Receiving Corps

If the Cowboys can successfully retain Pickens, they will maintain one of the most potent wide receiver duos in the league. With Lamb and Pickens leading the charge, the Cowboys’ offense will continue to be a force to be reckoned with. However, if they are unable to keep Pickens, the team will have to pivot and look for other ways to bolster their receiving corps heading into 2026.
In either scenario, the Cowboys’ focus will remain on continuing to build a championship-caliber team, and Lamb’s leadership, along with the potential re-signing of Pickens, will play a huge role in that process.
Conclusion: The Wait Continues for Pickens’ Future
As the Cowboys work to secure George Pickens’ future with the team, CeeDee Lamb’s comments reinforce the importance of team chemistry and the desire to build something special in Dallas. With the duo combining for one of the most productive receiving seasons in recent history, the Cowboys’ offense is in good hands—provided they can keep both Lamb and Pickens for the long haul.
The next few months will be critical for the Cowboys, as they navigate contract negotiations and make key decisions that will shape the future of the franchise. But no matter what happens, Lamb’s unselfishness and commitment to the team serve as a reminder that the most important thing is winning championships together.
This expanded version provides a deeper look into George Pickens’ potential free agency, CeeDee Lamb’s unselfish approach, and what it means for the Cowboys’ future. It also explores how the duo’s success in 2025 has solidified their place as one of the NFL’s top receiver tandems and what the Cowboys must do to keep them together.