The Dallas Cowboys have officially placed the franchise tag on star wide receiver George Pickens, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The move ensures the Pro Bowl wideout remains in Dallas for the 2026 season while the two sides work toward a long-term contract extension.
Pickens, who turns 25 next week, is coming off a career-best year in 2025. He finished the season with 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, earning his first career Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections. Per @RapSheet, the tag is worth a fully guaranteed salary of approximately $28.8 million for the upcoming season.
The Cowboys acquired Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers via trade last offseason, and he quickly established himself as a primary target for quarterback Dak Prescott. By applying the tag before the March 3 deadline, Dallas prevents Pickens from hitting unrestricted free agency. The team and player now have until the July 15 deadline to agree to a multi-year deal.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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