The Dallas Cowboys intend to use their franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens, but that does not mean his future with the organization is settled.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Sunday that Pickens could be subject to a “tag-and-trade” situation after the Cowboys officially use the franchise tag on him. He noted that the Cowboys might see the opportunity to capitalize on his value after acquiring him for a third-round pick last year, and noted that Pickens and Micah Parsons have the same agent in the form of David Mulugheta.
The #Cowboys have shown a willingness to trade their stars for significant draft pick compensation. George Pickens' situation will be fascinating to watch, as he'll have no shortage of suitors. https://t.co/9gOrknGxuE
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 8, 2026
As it stands, the tag for Pickens will be roughly $28 million. His situation beyond that would be uncertain, so the trade rumors make sense given the Cowboys’ penchant for difficult contract negotiations. A trade to a new team could allow Pickens to sign a long-term deal and allow the Cowboys to get some future draft capital in return.
The Cowboys would, however, have to think about the message they would be sending to fans and the team if they dealt a talent like Pickens for draft picks on the heels of a 7-9-1 season.
Pickens is coming off a breakout season that saw him catch 93 passes for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. He turns 25 in March.
