Should the Cowboys Worry About Their 2026 Franchise Tags Unsigned Contract?
The Dallas Cowboys used their one franchise tag of the season on 25-year-old former Pittsburgh Steelers Wide Receiver George Pickens, but he hasn’t yet signed the tender, which means he is not under contract with the team. As a result, Pickens is still free to negotiate with other teams, though if another team signs him, they would be required to give the Cowboys two first-round draft picks as compensation. While Pickens has not joined the Cowboys' activities due to the unsigned tender, he is still expected to be committed to Dallas, but his status remains unresolved until the paperwork is complete.
By using the franchise tag, the Dallas Cowboys are delaying the funding issue and will likely face the same situation with George Pickens next year. After committing over 85% of their funds, they're now forced to balance immediate roster decisions with long-term financial constraints. Restructuring current contracts would be a stronger option, allowing them to use the generated funds to secure an exclusive franchise tag rather than a non-exclusive one. Jerry Jones’ concern about sacrificing the future for short-term gains is quickly becoming a pressing reality. If the organization does not address its larger financial structure now, this situation could repeat itself year after year with key players.
The Cowboys' use of their franchise tag in this manner is putting off the problem until later, when it will be an even bigger concern. This can cause problems such as players leaving the team for more stable conditions or cutting funds for future decisions and cost needs. This also runs the risk that the Lone Star franchise can potentially run out of time and wait until the last minute in mid-July. Pickens has had a wonderful year, having 93 receptions and nine touchdowns. The explosive playmaker has demonstrated that he’s good and helpful, but he’s not an essential defender. While offense is always important for a team, and they are adding very strong players such as Pickens and Javonte Williams, this situation continues to dominate the conversation, distracting from the Cowboys’ larger issue and delaying the decisions that ultimately need to be made.
