Dallas Cowboys Face Crucial Decision on George Pickens — Why a Franchise Tag and Trade Makes Little Sense

The Dallas Cowboys are heading into one of the most important offseasons in recent memory, and a major decision looms regarding star wide receiver George Pickens. As contract talks intensify, multiple scenarios have surfaced — from a long-term extension to the use of the franchise tag. However, one rumored strategy continues to spark debate across NFL circles: tagging Pickens only to trade him.

While speculation about a franchise tag-and-trade has gained traction, many insiders believe such a move would be a costly mistake for Dallas and provide minimal long-term value.

Cowboys’ Most Logical Path: Locking Pickens in Long-Term

Pickens has quickly emerged as one of the Cowboys’ most dynamic offensive weapons. After a standout season that included a Pro Bowl appearance, he has positioned himself as a cornerstone player for the franchise’s future.

The most straightforward move for Dallas would be to sign Pickens to a long-term contract before free agency begins. Doing so would secure one of the NFL’s rising elite receivers and avoid unnecessary drama during the offseason.

If negotiations stall, the Cowboys could use the franchise tag — projected at roughly $28 million for wide receivers in 2026 — to prevent Pickens from hitting the open market while continuing contract discussions. This approach would maintain leverage and ensure he remains in Dallas for at least another season.

But tagging him with the intention of trading him is another matter entirely.

Why a Tag-and-Trade Scenario Is Risky

Recent reports suggest some within NFL scouting circles question whether Pickens’ trade value would match expectations. One anonymous AFC scout reportedly indicated that even after a Pro Bowl-caliber season, Pickens might only command a mid-round draft return.

According to that evaluation, the best-case scenario could be a second-round pick and a late-round swap. Realistically, however, teams might only offer a third- and fourth-round combination — far less than what Dallas would need to justify losing a top-tier receiver.

For the Cowboys, moving on from Pickens for such a return would create more problems than solutions. The team invested heavily in acquiring and developing him, and his chemistry with quarterback Dak Prescott has become a key part of the offense.

Trading him for modest draft capital would not significantly improve the roster or strengthen their long-term outlook.

Pickens’ Value to the Cowboys Offense

Pickens has become a central figure in Dallas’ passing attack, providing explosive playmaking ability and consistency on the outside. His presence stretches defenses and creates opportunities for the rest of the offense.

Prescott has openly advocated for Pickens’ return, emphasizing the impact he has both on and off the field. Coaches and front office leaders have echoed that sentiment, signaling a strong organizational desire to keep him in Dallas.

Allowing such a player to leave — especially for minimal trade compensation — would undermine the Cowboys’ stated goal of building a contender for the future.

Contract Projections and Financial Outlook

Financially, retaining Pickens appears manageable. The projected franchise tag for wide receivers in 2026 is approximately $28.046 million, according to contract analysts. Meanwhile, market projections suggest Pickens could command a deal worth around five years and $153.7 million in free agency, averaging roughly $30.8 million annually.

While those numbers are significant, they fall within a range the Cowboys can realistically afford, particularly if they prioritize Pickens as a long-term building block. Such a contract would place him among the highest-paid receivers in the NFL but also reflect his importance to the team’s offensive identity.

Given the relatively small gap between the franchise tag value and a long-term annual salary, the Cowboys have little financial reason to delay negotiations or consider a trade.

Internal Support for Keeping Pickens

Support for re-signing Pickens extends throughout the organization. Prescott has publicly campaigned for his return, and both head coach Brian Schottenheimer and owner Jerry Jones have expressed interest in keeping the star receiver in Dallas.

Their stance suggests that a long-term deal remains the preferred outcome. Using the franchise tag could serve as a temporary measure if needed, but the ultimate goal appears to be securing Pickens as a foundational piece of the offense for years to come.

The Bottom Line

The Cowboys have several options regarding George Pickens, but not all of them carry equal value. A franchise tag-and-trade scenario might generate headlines, yet it offers limited practical benefit for a team trying to remain competitive and build for the future.

Unless another team presents an unexpectedly massive trade package, the smartest move for Dallas is clear: prioritize a long-term extension and keep one of their most explosive playmakers in a Cowboys uniform.

If the organization truly intends to compete for championships and maintain offensive stability, ensuring George Pickens remains in Dallas beyond 2026 should be at the top of its offseason agenda.