George Pickens is considered one of the most talented wide receivers in the NFL currently. Drafted in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers, he later joined the Dallas Cowboys, and is expected to play an important role next season for them.
After a good 2025 season, he expected to get a better contract, but it did not happen. He has now spoken about it as the team prepares for the next season.
George Pickens addresses contract situation
Pickens had a great 2025 season where he had 1,429 receiving yards with nine touchdowns and also earned Pro Bowl honors. He signedhis $27.3 million franchise tag in late March, and is currently on a one-year fully guaranteed contract. He was expecting to be rewarded with a new long-term contract, but the franchise ruled out offering such a contract this offseason.
Feb 2, 2026; San Francisco, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys receiver George Pickens during NFC practice at the NFL Flag Fieldhouse at Moscone Center South Building. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
He previously skipped the voluntary OTAs on the advice of his agent David Mulugheta. He later participated in the minicamp to avoid fines totaling more than $100,000 for missing the required sessions. Despite his contract situation with the Cowboys, he has said that he is not disappointed and plans to report to training camp on time without holding out.
In a press conference with reporters after the minicamp, he said, “It’s football first, you see what I mean. So definitely play football first, kind of like I did last year, and then worry about, well, let my agent worry about shiny talk.”
He also added, “What’s important to me is winning. Like I said from the beginning, I always wanna bring a Super Bowl to a group of guys that never had that feeling. That’s really the most important part to me.” Aside from his ambitions, he confirmed that he will practice with the Cowboys with no further problems.
George Pickens shuts down holdout rumors
Pickens completely shut down any rumors of holding out on practice sessions anymore, and has clarified his commitment to the team. He said, “When I think about the team, the run we could have had in 2025, certain stuff just being in place and could make something bigger. I kind of think about that.”
He added, “Uh, no, I’m definitely here now. Like I said, the group of guys that’s with the Cowboys kind of prevents you from holding out. If you know guys, and are going to guys’ houses, you’re talking. I talk to Dak Prescott. I’m still throwing with Dak. He’s definitely gonna make you not want to hold out.”
George Pickens will be preparing himself for the 2026 NFL season, with much expectations on him.
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