Get ready for a wild ride, folks! The Dallas Cowboys have a real gem on their hands with George Pickens, but keeping him might just be the biggest challenge yet.
In a stunning move, the Cowboys acquired Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers for a mere 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. And they're getting him for a bargain, paying him just $3.656 million this season. But here's where it gets controversial... Pickens is set to become a free agent in March, and his performance is demanding a top-tier contract.
Pickens has been on fire, with 18 receptions for 290 yards and two touchdowns in the last two weeks alone. His chemistry with quarterback Dak Prescott is undeniable. Prescott raves about Pickens' limitless potential, saying, "He's not from this planet."
Pickens has outshone his teammate CeeDee Lamb and is having a career-best season with 67 receptions, eight receiving touchdowns, and over 1,000 yards. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones can't help but gush about Pickens' impact, calling him "an integral part of our story."
But the question remains: Can the Cowboys afford to keep him? According to overthecap.com, the team is projected to be $60.2 million over the 2026 salary cap. One option is to use the franchise tag, which would cost a whopping $28 million for one season. However, this move might not sit well with Pickens.
Jerry Jones acknowledges the desire to keep Pickens, saying, "Of course, we are proud to have him." But the team is taking its time, as usual, before figuring out a plan.
The Cowboys could sign Pickens to a deal now, but they seem content to wait. Will they find a way to keep their rising star, or will Pickens hit the open market? The future of this dynamic wide receiver is up in the air, and the Cowboys' decision could spark a heated debate among fans.
So, what do you think? Should the Cowboys make a bold move to keep Pickens, or is it time to let him test the waters of free agency? Let us know in the comments!
