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Cowboys Eye Franchise Tag for Star Receiver Pickens

1/29/2026

Summary

Cowboys Tag Pickens

The Dallas Cowboys are expected to franchise-tag George Pickens (Dallas Cowboys wide receiver) if a long-term deal isn't reached.
Pickens posted 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns.
Mike Evans' future with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is uncertain, with less than a 50% chance of re-signing.
Denver Broncos, Tennessee Titans, and Los Angeles Chargers are potential suitors for Pickens, given cap space and need for a top receiver.

Summary

Colts Offseason Dilemma

The Indianapolis Colts face a difficult offseason, lacking a first-round pick and potentially losing Colts quarterback Daniel Jones and wide receiver Alec Pierce.
Pierce had a breakout season in 2025, drawing interest from the Denver Broncos.
ESPN's Aaron Schatz predicts Pierce may sign with Denver, leaving the Colts to choose between retaining him or Michael Pittman Jr.
If Jones returns from injury, keeping Pierce could be crucial for Colts' offense.

History

Historical Context

The NFL introduced the franchise tag in 1993 to help teams retain key players amid the rise of free agency. This mechanism allows teams to secure a player for one year at a salary based on the top five salaries at their position. As of 2020, the franchise tag remains vital for teams like the Denver Broncos and Tampa Bay Buccaneers in managing competitive rosters.

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Cowboys Tag Pickens

The Dallas Cowboys are expected to franchise-tag George Pickens (Dallas Cowboys wide receiver) if a long-term deal isn't reached.
Pickens posted 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns.
Mike Evans' future with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is uncertain, with less than a 50% chance of re-signing.
Denver Broncos, Tennessee Titans, and Los Angeles Chargers are potential suitors for Pickens, given cap space and need for a top receiver.

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