The Dallas Cowboys’ 2025 NFL season did not go as planned. However, one bright spot from Dallas’ 7-9-1 season was star wide receiver George Pickens.
Pickens, a former Georgia Bulldog, produced career-best numbers with Dallas after being traded from the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pickens had instant chemistry with quarterback Dak Prescott. He posted 93 receptions, 1,429 receiving yards and nine touchdowns during the 2025 season. Pickens was Dallas’ leading receiver despite the Cowboys having All-Pro CeeDee Lamb.
Pickens is a Pro Bowler and will free agent this offseason. He will be just 25 entering the 2026 NFL season. The talented receiver would command a ton of money on the open market, but it is unlikely Dallas will let him get there. The Cowboys and owner Jerry Jones could (and probably will) franchise tag Pickens to prevent him from entering free agency.
Of course, Dallas may not be looking to pay two receivers big money. Lamb is already set to have a cap hit of over $38 million in 2026. Pickens is expected to command a similar contract to Lamb. He’s one of the NFL’s top receivers.
ESPN’s Matt Bowen ranks Pickens as their No. 2 free agent this offseason. Pickens is ranked as the best wide receiver that could be a free agent in March.
“With 22 receptions of 20 or more yards in 2025 (fourth most in the league), Pickens has the explosive ability to flip the field,” Bowens wrote. “That skill will lead to big money in the open market if he isn’t franchise-tagged. Pickens also finished third in the NFL with 1,429 receiving yards. His ability to run routes at all three levels boosts his free agent profile even more.”
Dallas’ decision on Pickens will be an interesting one to watch. Do the Cowboys continue to invest a ton of money in their passing game? Or will they let Pickens walk? We think Dallas will franchise Pickens in a typical Jerry Jones move.
