Some major updates have emerged on the Dallas Cowboys‘ plans to retain George Pickens, including a top star willing to restructure his contract to make sure the receiver is back in 2026.
When the Cowboys traded for Pickens last spring, there was an obvious risk. The former second-round pick had developed a reputation for being difficult, and that was the last thing Dallas needed. However, the organization felt they had the setup to get the most out of a player who has always shown big-time potential. And they were right.
Under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer, and with Dak Prescott throwing him the ball, the 24-year-old had a huge breakout season. Reeling in 93 catches, 1,429 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns. It was everything the team could hope for. It was also everything Pickens wanted as well, because now he can take that big season into free agency.
Yet, the team has made it clear they will aggressively work to re-sign him this offseason. “I’m talking to George all the time by virtue of my excitement for him,” Cowboys owner Jerry Jones told the team’s website this week.
“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.”
But how much will it cost the organization to keep him in Big D? Well, they could use their franchise tag on him, which would cost the team $28 million in 2026. Or they could work out something long-term with a lower annual average.
“With a WR market that has skyrocketed in recent years, Pickens is expected to bring in upwards of $20 million a year in his next contract,” Michael Baca of NFL Media reports.
CeeDee Lamb will restructure contract to bring George Pickens back
While not a cheap number, it isn’t outrageous either. But Baca pointed out that they already have a few big contracts on the books for next season. So fitting Pickens in won’t be easy. However, his pass-catching running mate CeeDee Lamb is willing to help.
“I mean, if it’s necessary,” Lamb told Dan Patrick when asked if he would restructure his contract to fit Pickens into the salary cap next season.
It’s unclear how much Lamb would be willing to slash off his upcoming income. However, whatever he is willing to give up from the $136 million contract he signed two years ago will help.
