Story perspectives

Cowboys Tag WR George Pickens, Mulling Trade for Picks

4/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Dallas Cowboys placed a non-exclusive franchise tag worth $27.3 million on wide receiver George Pickens, ending multi-year talks.
Team said paying quarterback Dak Prescott’s $60 million salary and receiver CeeDee Lamb’s $34 million contract alongside receivers stretches cap.
Pickens recorded 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns in 2025, earning second-team All-Pro honors.
Analysts say Dallas could trade Pickens for a second-round pick, holding No. 12 and No. 20 in the 2026 draft.

History

Historical Context

The NFL introduced the franchise tag system in 1993 to help teams retain key players while managing salary caps. This strategy is exemplified by the Dallas Cowboys' $27.3 million tag on George Pickens, amid Dak Prescott's $60 million salary and CeeDee Lamb's $34 million contract. Such financial maneuvers highlight the ongoing struggle teams face in balancing star salaries with overall roster depth.

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Story summary

The Dallas Cowboys placed a non-exclusive franchise tag worth $27.3 million on wide receiver George Pickens, ending multi-year talks.
Team said paying quarterback Dak Prescott’s $60 million salary and receiver CeeDee Lamb’s $34 million contract alongside receivers stretches cap.
Pickens recorded 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns in 2025, earning second-team All-Pro honors.
Analysts say Dallas could trade Pickens for a second-round pick, holding No. 12 and No. 20 in the 2026 draft.

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