George Pickens is set to hit free agency this offseason, leaving the Dallas Cowboys facing a crucial decision regarding the star wide receiver’s future. In the past, owner Jerry Jones has pushed the limits during contract negotiations, often at the organization’s expense. Now, with Pickens emerging as a candidate for a significant payday, NFL analysts have begun predicting what the next step could be for the two sides.
George Pickens Cashes in Big-time this Spring
In a recent article, with contributions from analysts Jeremy Fowler, Dan Graziano, and multiple other trusted reporters, the crew made predictions for 2026 free agency and the upcoming season.
When the Dallas Cowboys were discussed, Pickens, their headliner free agent, was mentioned. “Pickens has been spectacular for Dallas since the team acquired him in a trade with Pittsburgh,” Graziano noted.
Pickens posted career highs in each of the main receiving categories, recording 93 receptions, 1,429 receiving yards, and 9 touchdowns. Most notably, the breakout WR ranked 3rd among all wideouts, per PFSN’s NFL WR Impact Metric.
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Unfortunately, it isn’t always smooth sailing with Pickens. Graziano reaffirmed that sentiment, stating, “He comes with concerns due to some of the effort and concentration issues…”
Still, the analyst noted, “Based on everything I’ve heard, the franchise tag is the likely option here.” According to Spotrac, the WR franchise tag sits at $28,037,000 in 2026.
Shortly after, Ben Solak made his “Big prediction for the offseason,” stating, “The Cowboys — after a classic prolonged and public negotiation — will make Pickens the fourth-highest-paid receiver in the NFL.”
As Jones has done with quarterback Dak Prescott, EDGE Micah Parsons, and many more, there is high potential for Pickens’ contract negotiations to be drawn out. Ultimately, though, Solak believes Pickens will cash in.
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According to Solak, the deal will have Pickens earning more than DK Metcalf ($33 million per year) and just behind his teammate, CeeDee Lamb ($34 million). The analyst closed by making a bold prediction for the Cowboys’ offense, saying, “with Pickens back, quarterback Dak Prescott goes on to win MVP in 2026.”
In 2025, Prescott passed for 4,552 yards and scored 32 total touchdowns. The veteran QB also led the Cowboys to the 6th-best offense according to PFSN’s NFL Offense Impact ranking. Next season, assuming the Cowboys re-sign Pickens, Prescott will have an opportunity to replicate those numbers and possibly reach new heights.
On the other hand, the Cowboys will still need to make more moves this offseason, especially on defense. If they can fill those gaps, however, big things may be in store for Dallas in 2026.
