The uncertainty regarding wide receiver George Pickens' future seems to be over.

Executive Vice President Stephen Jones confirms plans to place the franchise tag on Pickens in the upcoming week.

Pickens has been subject to scrutiny from both fans and experts alike on whether he will be staying with the Cowboys for the 2026 season. Stephen Jones has now squashed those rumors.

Speaking to Judy Battista of NFL Media, Stephen Jones said, “We want Pickens here. We think the world of him. We love him. And I think he wants to be here.”

George Pickens had a standout season with the Cowboys, covering 1,429 yards, nine touchdowns, and 93 catches in his first season. He formed a great partnership alongside CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott.

So much so that Prescott has already expressed his desire to play with Pickens for another season.

“I think it’s vital, I think it must be done,” Prescott said. “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.”

The franchise tag on George Pickens is estimated to be around the $28 million mark. It remains to be seen if Pickens would accept the terms of the franchise tag or try to negotiate for a multi-year deal.

The Cowboys have started the offseason recruitment strong

The Cowboys have started the offseason by signing running back Javonte Williams to a three-year, $24 million deal. The contract also included $16 million in guaranteed money.

Williams had a great season with the Cowboys last year, coming off of a injury ridden stint with the Denver Broncos before that. He recorded 1,201 rushing yards, 11 touchdowns, and a career high 4.8 yards per carry.

Just last month, Stephen Jones was seen speaking to the media about Williams,  “Javonte’s at the top of our list to go out and sign. We want to bring him back. We want to sign him to a multiple-year deal.”

The Cowboys’ draft is looking strong so far, and if they manage to retain George Pickens, it would be a huge boost for them going into the 2026 season.

What do you think of Stephen Jones’ decision to place the franchise tag on George Pickens? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Shyam Hari

Edited by

Kalp Thaker