The Dallas Cowboys are making one thing very clear heading into the 2026 season: George Pickens isn’t going anywhere. Despite a whirlwind of trade rumors swirling around the star wideout this offseason, Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones shut down the speculation with some serious authority.
Speaking ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, Jones noted that the team has “zero intentions” of moving the Pro Bowl receiver. While the Cowboys opted to halt long-term contract negotiations, choosing instead to have Pickens play the 2026 season under the $27.3 million franchise tag, Jones emphasized that the move is about financial flexibility rather than a lack of belief in the player.
“We’ve got every reason in the world to believe that he’s ready to go to work,” Jones said, noting that communication with the receiver has been outstanding.
Stephen Jones said the Cowboys have zero intention of trading George Pickens pic.twitter.com/XFiGJo4QtX
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) April 24, 2026
The commitment makes sense when you look at the absolute heater Pickens put together in 2025. After Dallas acquired Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers for a third-round pick, he exploded for a career-high 93 receptions, 1,429 yards, and nine touchdowns. He became the vertical threat Dak Prescott desperately needed, often outshining even CeeDee Lamb in high-stakes moments.
Look no further than his performance against the Philadelphia Eagles on Nov. 23, 2025. Pickens hauled in nine catches for 146 yards and a touchdown, consistently shredding the secondary in a crucial divisional win. He followed that up with another massive outing against the Las Vegas Raiders on Nov. 17, posting 144 yards and a score on nine receptions.
Pickens officially signed his franchise tender on April 23, just hours before the draft kicked off. With his signature on the dotted line, the 25-year-old is set to remain a Cowboy for at least one more year. For a Dallas offense looking to reclaim the NFC East, keeping a 1,400-yard weapon in the building was the only move that made sense.
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