While it’s quiet right now, the George Pickens trade rumors aren’t going away anytime soon. Jeremy Fowler of ESPN was told that the Cowboys aren’t quite off the hook for Pickens holding out for a long-term deal. The former second-round pick finally signed his franchise tag after the NFL Draft, while it was speculated that the team would trade him. Even if the star wideout plays out the entire 2026 campaign, the team could face the possibility of Pickens holding out next offseason if he’s franchised tagged for a second consecutive time. The executive to Fowler kept it simple on what the future will look like for this offense:
“Dallas is going to face a big decision because Pickens is set up to have another productive season, and the receiver market has skyrocketed,” one NFL executive told Fowler. “If they tag him again without the promise of a new deal, he could revolt.”
Rightfully so, the Cowboys can’t afford to stall on a deal for Pickens, especially if he has another breakout campaign. Last year, he recorded 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, all career-highs. The receiver could be looking to top those numbers, and if he doesn’t get a deal he likes, he could request a trade anyway next offseason.
George Pickens Trade Rumors
Main Photo: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
George Pickens Trade Rumors: Exec Predicts Blockbuster Exit Over $27 Million Tag
Unfortunately, the Cowboys have already dug themselves into a hole. Due to the contract of CeeDee Lamb, they didn’t want to pay Pickens at this time. However, it doesn’t make sense if that was the case. Lamb was open to a paycut to keep the receiver on a long-term deal, but what could the team be thinking long-term? Either way, Dallas will need to pay Pickens and later sign Lamb to another contract extension once his current deal is over.
With that, it does feel sensible that the Cowboys are waiting. Lamb could also demand a new deal at age 29 in a few years, and could turn it around on Dallas that he sacrificed his deal to keep Pickens, now ‘Where is my money, now’ mentality. It’s something to keep in mind what the Cowboys are prioritizing, and if Pickens is worth it enough in those long-term decisions.
QB Dak Prescott Breaks Silence on George Pickens Trade Rumors
Even though things can go any way for the rest of this offseason, QB Dak Prescott expressed confidence in the situation surrounding the star. Prescott, a former fourth-round pick, has been supportive of his teammates. Entering his 11th season this year, he said:
“I’ve just shown George my support. The guy that I know George is— obviously, he signed the tag, so when he has to be there and ready to play he’s going to be there,” Prescott said. “He’s a hell of a talent. We’ve thrown this offseason, so I’m comfortable where he’s at and excited for when he can get in the building and get rolling.”
Prescott doesn’t sound afraid of the receiver’s future. While that might be the case, the receiver missed voluntary workouts, and it could become worrisome if he misses mandatory training. However, he isn’t required to show up until June 16. This is a story to continue to watch over the next month to see what Pickens does.
What’s Next?
As of this posting, the Cowboys are getting ready for OTA’s with or without Pickens. They made several adjustments to their defense, including drafting star safety Caleb Downs and trading for linebackers Rashan Gary and Dee Winters. The defense looks very promising, but for George Pickens, it’s hard to predict what his future looks like. Could he request a trade next month?
It’s a 50/50 game at this stage in the latest rumors.