George Pickens has had a strong start with the Cowboys after becoming one of their most productive offensive players. But with contract talks at a key deadline, the focus has shifted from his play on the field to what comes next in Dallas
Emmanuel Acho questions Cowboys' George Pickens decision
The Cowboys did not agree to a long-term deal with Pickens before the NFL's July 15 deadline, so the wide receiver will play the 2026 season on the franchise tag. Former NFL linebacker Emmanuel Acho says that leaves too much risk for both sides.
Speaking on Speakeasy, Acho argued that Pickens fulfilled his part after arriving in Dallas. "He did everything he was supposed to do. That's the deal. He did his end of the bargain," Acho said while criticizing the lack of a multiyear contract.
Pickens delivered the production the Cowboys hoped for after trading for him from the Pittsburgh Steelers. He finished the 2025 season with 1,429 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, and he helped steady the passing game while CeeDee Lamb was out.
Even after that season, Dallas chose the one-year franchise tag instead of long-term security. The tag gives Pickens a strong salary this year, but it also lets both sides return to the table after the season.
Waiting another offseason could make the talks even harder. Under the NFL's Collective Bargaining Agreement, a second franchise tag would force Dallas to pay either the 2027 tag value for wide receivers or 120 percent of Pickens' previous salary, whichever is higher.
That risk has drawn added attention because of the Cowboys' recent history. Dak Prescott's extension came together just before the 2024 regular season, while Micah Parsons eventually left after talks broke down.
For Dallas, the move gives short-term flexibility. For Pickens, the 2026 season now carries extra weight as he tries to land the long-term deal many think he has already earned.
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