The longer the Dallas Cowboys and Jerry Jones delay working out an extension, the more expensive George Pickens could become. For his part, the wide receiver is simply seeking a contract that reflects the market value of the league’s top wideouts.
George Pickens Sends Clear Contract Message to Jerry Jones Ahead of the 2026 Season
The Cowboys and Pickens were unable to finalize a long-term contract extension before the July deadline, meaning he will play the 2026 season under the franchise tag. However, Jones recently expressed confidence in Pickens’ future with the organization, insisting there should be “no mistake” about the receiver’s long-term outlook in Dallas.
Jones even suggested Pickens could remain with the Cowboys for the rest of his career, adding, “That’d be a long time.” Pickens later welcomed those comments, saying he was “super excited.”
Pickens is now also set to earn $27.3 million on the franchise tag and enters 2026 after an incredible debut season with Dallas in 2025, securing an 90.6 grade in the NFL WR Impact.
When discussing his future earnings, Pickens made it clear that he expects a deal comparable to those of other top NFL receivers.
“Definitely something that the other guys are getting cause that’s all I can really look forward to,” Pickens said. “I can’t really ask for nothing too crazy, but just what I see. So definitely somewhere where the other guys are getting.”
#Cowboys George Pickens gives an idea of where he’d like to be contract-wise compared to other WRs in the NFL.
“Definitely something that the other guys are getting cause that’s all I can really look forward to. I can’t really ask for nothing too crazy, but just what I see. So… pic.twitter.com/xMoMQVVx0U
— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) August 1, 2026
The Seattle Seahawks rewarded Jaxon Smith-Njigba with a four-year, $168.6 million extension worth an average of $42.15 million annually after their Super Bowl LX win. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase also has a four-year, $161 million extension, averaging $40.25 million per season.
The New Orleans Saints also recently signed Chris Olave to a four-year, $124 million contract on Thursday. With several wide receivers landing deals between $33 million and $42 million annually this offseason, Pickens seems well-positioned to seek a contract within that range.
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If Pickens delivers another big season in 2026, the Cowboys may have little choice but to secure him with a long-term deal. Pairing him alongside CeeDee Lamb for years to come remains a huge vision for Dallas, and Lamb has already voiced his support for his teammate earning top dollar.
“I always want him to win,” Lamb said. “I’m his biggest fan. I tell him this all the time; he’s elite at what he does. … I’m happy to have him on my team, and vice versa, I’m sure he is too. I want him to get all the money in the world.”
Lamb himself is currently playing under a four-year, $136 million extension that pays him an average of $34 million per year. However, with the receiver market continuing to climb, Pickens could ultimately land an even richer deal than his Cowboys teammate if he builds on his strong performances.
