League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Trades

George Pickens remains on franchise tag after deadline passes for long-term deal

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 15, 2026, 9:19 PM

Last updated Jul 15, 2026

George Pickens remains on franchise tag after deadline passes for long-term deal

Summary

The deadline for George Pickens to secure a long-term contract with the Cowboys passed, confirming he will play the 2026 season on a one-year, fully guaranteed franchise tag worth $27.3 million. Pickens had initially signed the non-exclusive tag on April 29. The Cowboys are unable to extend his contract until after the regular season ends, and he is set to enter free agency in March 2027. In 2025, Pickens earned his first Pro Bowl selection, recording 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, and will aim for another standout season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Market Watch

•Cowboys confirmed they will not extend George Pickens' contract.
•Pickens plays the 2026 season on a franchise tag.
•He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2025.
•Contract extension is not possible until after the regular season.
•He becomes a free agent in March 2027.

Latest Updates

9:51 AMYahoo Sports — The practical window for trading George Pickens has closed, too
2:55 AMYahoo Sports — Cowboys’ Key George Pickens Deadline ‘Officially’ Passes on Wednesday
9:19 PMYahoo Sports — Deadline passes for George Pickens to get a long-term deal

What they're saying

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There was still a chance that the Cowboys and George Pickens could work out a new contract this offseason ... until the latest update. The post Cowboys’ Key George Pickens Deadline ‘Officially’ Passes on Wednesday appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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The deadline for the Cowboys and receiver George Pickens to finalize a long-term deal passed without a failed game of beat the clock.
— Yahoo Sports