Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens will play the 2026 season on his $27.3 million franchise tender after the deadline for tagged players to sign long-term deals passed. This outcome was anticipated, as the Cowboys had previously stated they would not pursue a long-term contract with Pickens before the NFL draft. Pickens has already signed his tender, securing his place on the roster for the upcoming season.

Pickens expressed his focus on playing football first, deferring contract negotiations to his agent. He was one of four players to receive the franchise tag this year. The other three—Daniel Jones, Breece Hall, and Kyle Pitts Sr.—all secured long-term extensions before the deadline. The Cowboys have a history of players playing on the tag, with some eventually signing extensions and others departing in free agency.

Acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers last year, Pickens had a career-best season with the Cowboys, setting personal records in receptions (93), receiving yards (1,429), and touchdowns (9).