Will the Cowboys Franchise Tag George Pickens? What It Means for Dallas’ Offseason

George Pickens had a career season this past year.

After being traded to the Dallas Cowboys from the Pittsburgh Steelers for a third-round pick, Pickens was one of the most productive wide receivers this season, finishing top 10 in receptions (93), receiving yards (1,429) and receiving touchdowns (9.)

Pickens couldn’t have picked a better season to have a career-year, as he enters this offseason as a free agent. The Cowboys, who gave up a third-round pick for him, are hoping to retain him this offseason, and rumor has it, the Cowboys are expected to use the franchise tag on him if they can’t reach a long-term deal.

Via NFL insider Tony Pauline:

“Last season was the final year of Pickens’ rookie contract, so if the Cowboys don’t tag him or sign him to a contract, he’ll hit the free-agent market. He also turned in a career season in 2025, catching 93 passes for 1,429 yards with nine TDs.”

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Dallas currently ranks 30th in cap space, being $39.4 million over the limit. The projected franchise tag on a receiver in 2026 is $28.1 million. That being said, Dallas will have to make many changes to its roster, whether that’s trading players, releasing some, or restructuring some current deals.

In Other WR News, Tampa Bay Is Expected To Move On From Mike Evans

The George Pickens rumor of probably being franchise tagged wasn’t the only receiver news today. Per Tony Pauline, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are expected to move on from veteran wide receiver Mike Evans this offseason.

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