Pickens, Uncertain Future with the Cowboys? Statements and Possible Scenarios

FRISCO, Texas – George Pickens’ contract situation with the Dallas Cowboys has generated speculation about his future with the team after 2025.

I wouldn’t mind staying. The teammates in the locker room are great. The energy is fantastic. But, as I said, I always want to show my talent, without a doubt.

George Pickens

Pickens, acquired in a trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers in May, will become an unrestricted free agent after the season. Currently, the receiver has 32 receptions for 525 yards and has scored six touchdowns in the last five games. If he scores again this Sunday against the Washington Commanders, he would become the first Dallas wideout to achieve a receiving touchdown in six consecutive games since Terrell Owens in 2007. Pickens and Amari Cooper are the only Cowboys receivers to have recorded at least 500 receiving yards and six touchdowns in their first six games with the team. When asked if the contractual situation makes him nervous, Pickens responded:

I probably wouldn’t say that, because I’m in the middle of the season, so I’m not fully thinking about it. I just want to keep going and see how far we can get in terms of the playoffs and things like that.

George Pickens

The Cowboys’ star receiver, CeeDee Lamb, earns $34 million per year. Lamb has missed the last three games due to a high ankle sprain in his left ankle, but is expected to return this Sunday against the Commanders. He was listed as limited on Wednesday. When asked what coach Brian Schottenheimer needs to see from Lamb for him to play on Sunday, he replied:

Yes, if he’s breathing, I’d feel pretty good. … Honestly. No, I mean, CeeDee knows how to play football. If he runs and catches a pass or two, I’m good.

Brian Schottenheimer

Lamb’s return, added to Pickens’ productivity, should further improve the league’s number 1 offense in yards and number 3 in points. Much more dangerous, much more explosive, too, when you have other players like CeeDee and KaVontae Turpin out there. It’s another component of explosiveness that really can’t be described. Pickens, who will turn 25 in March, could be one of the most coveted receivers in free agency if he hits the market. The Cowboys could also consider using the franchise tag on him. On Tuesday, owner and general manager Jerry Jones didn’t want to get into whether the team would want to start conversations about a new contract with Pickens now, but said he is satisfied with how the trade has worked out. According to Jones, Pickens is exceeding expectations, and is a great contribution to the team both on and off the field. Jones added that the team will evaluate the situation, knowing that they will need available space if they want to pay a second receiver at that level.