It's all up to the Dallas Cowboys now. Five days ago, the franchise tag window officially opened up, and Dallas fans had one name in mind: George Pickens. But if the Cowboys want to retain him, one analyst named a steep price.

According to Calvin Watkins from The Dallas Morning News, the contract for Pickens would be in the $30 million range.

Watkins wrote, "Getting off to a strong start in contract talks, regardless of whether the franchise tag is applied, is key to making sure Pickens reports on time for the offseason program and training camp in July. Pickens seeks a contract of at least $30 million per season, which isn’t out of line considering the franchise tag is projected at $28 million."

As Watkins explained, the $30 million wouldn't be a stretch. In fact, it wouldn't even make him the highest-paid receiver on the team. Currently, that's CeeDee Lamb, who earns roughly $34 million every year.

And last season, Pickens outperformed CeeDee Lamb. Pickens had 1429 receiving yards with 9 touchdowns, while Lamb had 1077 yards with 3 touchdowns. With this, Pickens formed a solid partnership with Dak Prescott, turning the Dallas offense into a powerhouse.

That's why even with a number around $30 million, owner Jerry Jones will be keen to retain the receiver. Talking about the receiver earlier this month, Jones said, "He's better than, as far as what he contributed to our team, showing the potential that he could contribute. I'm looking forward to getting things worked out so George can be a Cowboy a long time."

The last date for the franchise tag is March 3^rd. Fans are waiting to see what decision Jerry Jones takes regarding his wide receiver.

But There Might Be One Complication

The uncertainty surrounding George Pickens' contract has raised questions about his next move. Experts have pointed out that Pickens and former Cowboys pass rusher Micah Parsons share the same agent in David Mulugheta.

Mulugheta negotiated the deal with the Packers for Micah Parsons, reaching an agreement with two first round draft picks and a player (Kenny Clark). Add to that Pickens' comments and Dallas fans may be worried. Talking about it at the Pro Bowl, Pickens had made his perspective clear:

"Just the ultimate best deal when it helps everybody. If it's the best thing for both parties, then I'm willing to do anything. But like I said, I can't control it, so I just kind of chill."

Will George Pickens stay? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

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Written by

Shyam Hari

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar