As the Dallas Cowboys wrap up their Pro Bowl week that included multiple selections, attention has shifted from celebration to contract negotiations.
Wide receiver George Pickens, one of the league’s most explosive pass catchers in 2025, is heading into free agency, and questions about his next deal have become a focal point.
Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones offered the team’s most definitive comments yet, emphasizing that Dallas intends to pay Pickens what he deserves.
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“Absolutely,” stated Jones when asked about keeping Pickens in Dallas.
“A lot of the reasons I did some of the things that I did last year were to retain some players that, if it had gone in different directions, I couldn’t have done it.”
Pickens joined the Cowboys on a one-year contract and quickly turned it into a breakout season, catching a league-high number of passes for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. His performance not only earned him a Pro Bowl nod but also cemented him as one of the most valuable upcoming free agents.
With his skill set on full display, the team faces a crucial decision: extend him now or risk losing him to another franchise.
The Cowboys could place the franchise tag on Pickens, but that would carry a hefty $28.1 million cap hit for a single season. While this guarantees short-term retention, many analysts suggest a long-term extension is the wiser approach.
Such a deal would provide both financial flexibility and stability for the offense, allowing the Cowboys to plan beyond the immediate season.
Lamb hoping Pickens stats in Dallas
Adding another layer to the discussion is the voice of CeeDee Lamb, Pickens’ fellow wide receiver and one of the NFL’s brightest talents. Lamb recently signed a four-year, $136 million extension, giving him a $34 million-per-year average.
Yet when asked if he minded Pickens potentially earning more, Lamb responded unequivocally that he simply wants his teammate to receive fair compensation.
“I don’t care about that; I just want my man to get what he deserves,” Lamb said on San Antonio’s Sports Star radio. His focus remains on competing at the highest level and contending for a championship.
Lamb‘s remarks carry weight, as they show both camaraderie and foresight. When Lamb missed time due to injury, Pickens stepped in seamlessly, demonstrating plenty of reliability.
Once Lamb returned, the duo formed one of the most dangerous receiving tandems in the league, further emphasizing the importance of keeping both players in Dallas.
Quarterback Dak Prescott has also publicly endorsed Pickens, recognizing his impact on the offense and the team’s Super Bowl aspirations. Prescott indicated he is ready to support negotiations if necessary, underlining Pickens‘ value not just statistically, but as a cornerstone of the team’s future.
Now, all eyes are on Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ front office. Balancing salary cap realities with the opportunity to retain a top-tier receiver, Dallas faces a pivotal moment. How they handle Pickens‘ contract could shape the team’s offensive identity for years.
