Cowboys poised to franchise-tag George Pickens to curb free agency
The Dallas Cowboys are expected to apply the franchise tag to wide receiver George Pickens, preventing him from hitting the open market. The tag would be around $28 million for 2026; if non-exclusive, other teams could sign him but Dallas could match or receive two first-round picks as compensation. The Cowboys and Pickens would have until July 15 to negotiate a long-term deal, and Pickens could hold out for more than the tag amount while remaining under the tag. The situation bears similarities to past Cowboys contract standoffs with Mulugheta’s clients.
