Cowboys Place Franchise Tag on George Pickens, Setting Stage for Long-Term Negotiations

The Dallas Cowboys have officially applied the franchise tag to wide receiver George Pickens, a procedural move that keeps the dynamic pass-catcher off the open market and buys the club time to hammer out a multi-year extension.

By using the tag, Dallas secures exclusive negotiating rights with Pickens through the upcoming league year. The designation guarantees the 23-year-old a lucrative one-year salary while both parties pivot toward crafting a lengthier pact that could lock him into the organization for the foreseeable future.

The decision underscores the Cowboys’ desire to retain one of their most explosive offensive weapons after a campaign in which Pickens showcased elite separation skills and game-breaking ability. Front-office officials now face the delicate balancing act of allocating cap space amid broader roster-building goals.

Negotiations on a long-term deal are expected to intensify in the coming weeks, with the March deadline for tagged players to reach agreements looming. Until pen meets paper, Pickens will operate under the franchise tender, ensuring his immediate future remains in Dallas as talks progress.