Jerry Jones faces a $40M George Pickens decision after Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb deals
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Jerry Jones faces a $40M George Pickens decision after Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb deals originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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The Dallas Cowboys face another major contract decision soon. Owner Jerry Jones must evaluate George Pickens after his strong debut. Pickens remains under team control for the 2026 season.
However, questions about his long-term future continue to grow. Jones often balances star power with strict financial discipline.
Jerry Jones faces a George Pickens contract dilemma
Former NFL star Cris Carter shared concerns about Pickens' future. He believes Dallas may hesitate before offering a long-term extension. Carter spoke recently on the Fully Loaded Podcast with Shawn Meaike. He said Dallas already spends heavily on key offensive players. Adding another top receiver contract could strain their salary structure.
Carter highlighted Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb as key factors. He noted Lamb is already established as the top receiver. “Well, there’s a guy that goes by the initials ‘CD’ and he wears number 88. They have determined that he is the number one guy,” Carter said.
He questioned approving another deal worth $35 million annually. He suggested Pickens could demand between $35 million and $40 million.
“So, how are you doing that? $130 – $135 million at those three guys? No. Jerry’s into making money. He’s not going to do it,” Carter added. Such a deal would heavily impact the team's salary cap. Carter warned that three players could consume too much cap space.
Pickens enters 2026 on a fully guaranteed franchise tag. The one-year deal is worth $27 million this season. Dallas acquired him from Pittsburgh for a third-round pick. That trade occurred before the 2025 NFL season began.
The Cowboys have signaled patience regarding a new contract. This approach reflects Jerry Jones' cautious financial strategy. Stephen Jones addressed the situation during April's pre-draft press conference. He said paying two elite receivers is extremely difficult.
This challenge increases with Prescott's massive quarterback contract. Jones also mentioned Pickens' limited time with the team.
This situation gives Pickens another chance to prove his value. He delivered an impressive debut season with Dallas. Pickens recorded 93 receptions for 1,429 receiving yards.
He also scored nine touchdowns during that breakout campaign. Each of those totals marked new career highs. His performance earned a Pro Bowl selection and All-Pro honors.
If Pickens repeats that production, discussions will likely resume. Jerry Jones and the Cowboys may revisit extension talks next offseason. The front office must weigh talent against financial limitations. Keeping both receivers could strain the team's salary cap.
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