Wide receivers have continued to reshape the NFL market ahead of the 2026 season. Over the past few days, several teams have rewarded some of their biggest stars with new contracts, including the Baltimore Ravens, who made Zay Flowers one of the league's highest-paid receivers.
That has naturally shifted some attention to other pass catchers still waiting for long-term deals.
George Pickens is among them after the Dallas Cowboys elected to use the non-exclusive franchise tag on the Pro Bowl receiver earlier this offseason instead of reaching a multiyear agreement. The tag guarantees GP $27.3 million for the 2026 season, placing him among the NFL's 10 highest-paid wide receivers this season.
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It also leaves the door open for Dallas to continue negotiating a long-term extension after Pickens put together the best season of his career in 2025. He finished the year with 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, making him one of Dak Prescott's most reliable targets throughout the season.
After Flowers agreed to a four-year, $140 million extension that includes $108 million guaranteed, Pickens was asked where he believes he fits in the current wide receiver market.
"Honestly, I feel like that's nice. Me, personally? I kinda like the world speak for me," GP said during an interview on 105.3 The Fan. "But I think I'm definitely in that range or above."
Pickens backed up that confidence with his production last season. He recorded 13 receptions of at least 25 yards and turned 73 catches into first downs, with both totals ranking among the league leaders.
His ability to stretch the field also gave the Cowboys another dimension in the passing game and created more opportunities for Prescott and the offense.
While his contract remains unresolved, Pickens indicated he never planned to stay away from the team during training camp. Instead, he said being with his teammates from the beginning of camp was always the priority as Dallas prepares for the upcoming season.
The Cowboys still have time to work out a long-term extension, but for now, GP is set to play the 2026 season under the franchise tag.
