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Cowboys Weigh Franchise Tag for George Pickens as Report Warns He May Skip Offseason Work

Dallas faces a cap crunch as Pickens seeks roughly $30 million per year.

Overview

  • Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News reports Pickens’ camp is targeting at least $30 million annually, in line with market projections near $30.6 million.
  • The franchise‑tag window is open through March 3, with the wide receiver tag projected around $28–28.8 million and the non‑exclusive tag keeping offer‑sheet and trade avenues in play.
  • FOX Sports, citing the Dallas Morning News, reports there is a strong chance Pickens would skip the team’s offseason program if tagged, though Stephen Jones said the club expects him to report.
  • Dallas is projected to be roughly $25–30 million over the 2026 cap, and the three‑year, $24 million deal for Javonte Williams tightens short‑term flexibility.
  • Analysts widely predict Dallas will use the tag, while ESPN’s Dan Graziano floated a debated swap sending Pickens and No. 20 to the Raiders for Maxx Crosby and No. 36.