The Dallas Cowboys' handling of wide receiver George Pickens' contract has sparked plenty of debate during the offseason. However, Will McClay, Cowboys Vice President of Player Personnel, is not concerned with what critics have to say.

During the 206th episode of the Doin Alright podcast, Will McClay stood firm on the team’s decision to let Pickens play under the franchise tag ($27.3M) for the 2026 season.

“And you know, public perception is 'oh, you should sign this guy and do that", Will McClay said. "But you know, I don't tell you how to run your checkbook, you don't tell me how to run mine. And it's, you know, our businesses. And so I really, everybody's philosophy is a little bit different. And we love George Pickens.”

McClay explained that there are different ways to build a successful roster, and each franchise follows its own approach. He further emphasized that roster construction is driven by the franchise’s long-term vision rather than public opinion.

“Finding a way to fill the team with 53 of the best players in today's day and age is very, very difficult,” McClay said during the Doin Alright podcast on July 24. “So you go through the different contracts and the different aspects and all those different ways, and you put it together. And that situation with George presented itself in the way that we could do it that way and still keep our team together. That's the best way for me to put it."

McClay added that while fans and analysts pushed for specific extension moves, the Cowboys have their own approach to business and team building, while considering the salary cap, availability, and future value of the talent. 

He explained that the Cowboys were able to retain Pickens because the move fit within their broader roster-building plans, enabling them to add talent while keeping the core of the team intact.

The wideout is expected to report to camp without holding out, allowing the team to enter training camp without the usual contract distractions.

George Pickens' breakout season could lead to a long-term Cowboys deal

Joseph Hoyt of the Dallas Morning News predicted Pickens' 2026 season could land him a long-term extension with the Cowboys if he replicates his 2025 production.

"Pickens had a breakout season last year with the Cowboys," Joseph Hoyt of the Dallas Morning News wrote in his article. "If he does that for a second year in a row, his market will surely grow. Then the Cowboys can decide if they want to commit long-term to the very talented wide receiver."

Pickens enters the 2026 season after a breakout campaign last year where he recorded 93 receptions for 1,429 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl nod.

Hoyt believes that Pickens reporting to mandatory minicamp and preparing to attend training camp without a hold-in over a contract extension is the "best avenue" for both sides.

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Written by

Archana Ramakrishnan

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit