George Pickens' status has been a subject of scrutiny. And just on the verge of the wide receiver getting a franchise tag, Pickens' trade value might not be what they initially believed, as per The Fort Worth Star-Telegram’s Nick Harris. 

"One AFC scout believes, as shared by Harris, Dallas likely could get a trade package worth a second-round pick and a late-round pick swap. That would not be an ideal scenario for the Cowboys if they are forced to move on from the talented wideout."

George Pickens was picked up by the Cowboys at the start of the 2025 season from the Pittsburgh Steelers after a 900-yard, 3-touchdown season. But Pickens turned it around with the Cowboys, racking up 1,429 yards and scoring 9 touchdowns. Along with Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, he was part of an offensive threat that could have taken the Cowboys to the playoffs. 

As a result, putting on a franchise tag on Pickens only to receive second and third-round picks won't be the smartest move for the Cowboys. Instead, they could use the tag to restructure major contracts and find space for Pickens' renewal. And if we look at the sentiment within the team, Pickens looks like he will stay.

Jerry Jones is hopeful of retaining George Pickens

Team owner Jerry Jones understands the importance of retaining George Pickens. While talking to the team’s official website, Jones said that he was looking to keep Pickens “for a long time”.

"I'm talking to George all the time by virtue of my excitement for him. 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 for a long time,” he said. 

It’s not just Jones who thinks so. Star quarterback Dak Prescott agrees.

Speaking at the Pro Bowl Games, Prescott said about retaining Pickens, "I think it must be done. I think obviously from Jerry to everybody down understands that, and one the impact on this offense and the team and the great player that he is, we've got to find a way to keep him here."

With the window approaching fast for the franchise tag, the Cowboys and Jerry Jones must act quickly to retain the wide receiver to keep their Super Bowl dreams alive. 

You can read more at the Dallas Cowboys Community!

Written by

Shyam Hari

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar