The biggest storyline for the Dallas Cowboys has been star wide receiver George Pickens this offseason. Despite franchise tagging him, the team is still reportedly working through a deal even though there haven’t been any “fresh talks.” Cowboys GM and Owner Jerry Jones said he’s unsure whether Pickens will attend the team’s offseason program, which would be huge if he decides to sit out. However, it sounds like the Cowboys plan to let him play on the franchise tag and work out a long-term deal, but that would put the team in a dangerous situation.
Originally selected in the 2022 NFL Draft as a second-round pick, the former Steeler has established himself as a special playmaker the Cowboys can’t afford to lose. Through 15 starts, Pickens finished with 93 catches, 1,429 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in his first year with the Cowboys after he was acquired in a trade. Similar to Jones’ stance, head coach Brian Schottenheimer hasn’t had assurance that Pickens will be a part of the team once voluntary workouts begin after the 2026 NFL Draft.
Jerry Jones Addresses Cowboys George Pickens Potential “Holdout”
While Jones appreciates that Pickens is actively working with quarterback Dak Prescott this offseason, it won’t guarantee that the receiver won’t hold out. It’s expected, similar to last offseason when fellow teammate and receiver CeeDee Lamb decided to skip offseason workouts, including mandatory minicamp, until he received a new extension.
A trade won’t come together before the draft this month, but something could happen if the Cowboys and Pickens can’t agree on a deal on July 15. Interestingly, Jones said in a shade towards Pickens’ agent, David Mulugheta:
“If he worked without an agent, he’d save a lot of money…. with me,” he said.
What’s Next?
Jones might have to hope that comment doesn’t come back to bite him in the end. The Cowboys owner has had his fair share of public issues with Mulugheta, especially in the Micah Parsons trade last summer. It seems like it could be the same situation that happens, but is Pickens willing to work with Jones without an agent? Most likely not, and this is something to watch closely over the next few months.