A new contract in Indianapolis could spell trouble for the Dallas Cowboys. The market for star wide receivers just got more expensive, potentially complicating the team's negotiations with George Pickens.

Alec Pierce has just signed a new $116 million deal to return to the Indianapolis Colts. The deal averages about $29 million per year.

In the 64 games played by Pierce, the wide receiver has had 157 catches, 2,934 yards, and 17 touchdowns. Pickens' production has been significantly higher.

In the 65 games played by George Pickens, the wide receiver has had 267 catches, 4,270 yards, and 21 touchdowns. The numbers are significantly better compared to those of Alec Pierce. 

This comparison creates a difficult negotiating position for the Cowboys. Alec Pierce is set to make $29 million at max value, and this sets a precedent for George Pickens' contract.

The Cowboys did franchise tag their leading wide receiver from the 2025 season. Since then, there has been no news on the two sides coming to an agreement on a new long-term contract. 

Pickens and his agent would be following this and would demand a higher salary based on the numbers alone. 

How does this situation play out for Pickens and the Cowboys?

Pickens had a standout 2025 season and put up stats better than fellow receiver CeeDee Lamb.  Pickens finished the 2025 season with 93 receptions, 1,429 yards, and nine touchdowns. 

The most obvious possibility right now would be Pickens playing out the season on the tag. If he opts for that, he would make about $27.3 million, which is slightly lower than Alec Pierce. 

Another option is for the two sides to agree on a long-term deal before the July 15 deadline. 

There have been plenty of Cowboys’ star players who have played on the tag for not one but two years. Dak Prescott would be an example of this. 

The contract negotiation remains a key focus for the team. Do the Cowboys and Jones trust Pickens with a lot of money amidst the high-maintenance tag that he comes with? Despite his talent, concerns about a large long-term investment remain.

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Written by

Samvruth Raj

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar