Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens remains at the center of contract-extension discussions. He enters the 2026 season with high expectations and growing value around the league. 

Amid ongoing speculation surrounding Pickens, Cowboys legend Emmitt Smith revealed key details on the receiver's future during an appearance on Action Network. 

Smith suggested there is no guarantee Pickens will remain in Dallas long term if he feels undervalued.

“You know what, I can see them making that decision,” Smith said. “However, the question is, does Pickens feel like the Cowboys did not do (him) right this year, and have a feeling that they will upgrade him next year? And if he doesn't feel like they will, I think he'll be gone."

Since Pickens is entering the final year of his rookie contract, Smith's point was that the 2026 season will work as an audition for the wide receiver. A strong season would significantly increase his leverage for a new contract, whether in Dallas or free agency.

He enters the season after a remarkable campaign. He recorded 93 receptions for a career-high 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns.

The Cowboys will expect Pickens to remain a major part of their offense this season. Pickens will look to build on his nine-touchdown performance from last season.

While Smith believes Pickens is motivated regardless of his contract status, Dallas could face a much bigger challenge if it decides to keep him beyond 2026. 

Cowboys Could Face Tough Financial Decisions Beyond 2026 

If Dallas decides to commit major money to Pickens, managing its salary cap could become more challenging. 

Dallas already has quarterback Dak Prescott on a deal worth roughly $60 million per season. On the other hand, CeeDee Lamb remains one of the highest-paid receivers in football with $136 million worth of contract for four years, per Spotrac.

The situation has taken a new turn after Pickens signed a one-year deal under the franchise tag in 2026, as per the NFL. 

"They're not keeping both of them," Dan Orlovsky said on ESPN's GetUp this Monday. “It's going to be signing George Pickens to a long-term deal that they've been hesitant to do, or CeeDee Lamb's going to be traded."

With ongoing concerns around Pickens' new deal and expensive contracts, his future in Dallas remains uncertain.

Where do you think George Pickens will be after the 2026 season? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Evince Das

Edited by

Rudra Dubey