Pickens Franchise Tag Deadline Passes, No Long-Term Deal

The deadline passed Wednesday for the Cowboys and Pickens to finalize a long-term deal. The wide receiver signed the non-exclusive franchise tag on April 29, which will pay him $27.3 million for the 2026 season, fully guaranteed. Pickens becomes the only NFL player to play on the franchise tag this season, as other tagged players like Kyle Pitts, Breece Hall, and Daniel Jones all signed long-term extensions. catcross.biz

The Cowboys cannot extend Pickens' contract until after the regular season ends, and he is scheduled to become a free agent again in March 2027. Pickens earned his first Pro Bowl selection in 2025 with Dallas, recording 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. Another strong season could position him to become one of the highest-paid receivers in the league.