As the 2026 NFL league year approaches, speculation around Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens has intensified, centering on potential trades involving the rising star. Pickens, who joined Dallas in a recent deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, immediately delivered an All-Pro-caliber performance, becoming a vital part of the Cowboys’ offense and fueling discussions about his future with the team.
Last week, the Cowboys completed a trade sending a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to Pittsburgh in exchange for Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick. This exchange has already proven advantageous for Dallas, as Pickens recorded 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns during the season, particularly stepping up when fellow wide receiver CeeDee Lamb was sidelined.
Fan Response to Proposed Trade Involving Maxx Crosby
Despite the productive season Pickens had, ESPN’s Dan Graziano recently proposed a surprising trade scenario. Graziano suggested that Dallas could trade Pickens along with a first-round pick to the Las Vegas Raiders in exchange for defensive end Maxx Crosby and a second-round pick. While many fans in Dallas appreciate Crosby’s abilities, they strongly oppose giving up Pickens in such a deal.
Voices among Cowboys supporters have been clear and passionate: one fan stated,
You trade him and you are taking 10 steps back, the offense is ready now. Use the two 1st round picks for the defense.
Another fan warned against weakening the offense, writing,
Why y’all keep wanting to set our offense back lol do y’all remember what it was before he got there,
while a third emphasized,
I’m sorry but if I am trading Pickens and picks for an edge I am doing so for Myles Garrett who is superior,
continuing,
Not that Cleveland would trade him, but if we’re overpaying for a player thats who I’m overpaying for.
Several fans expressed that losing Pickens along with multiple first-round picks is unwise.
Giving up two firsts and Pickens is no where near worth it. Retaining Pickens is top priority,
one supporter declared.
Dallas Likely to Retain Pickens with Franchise Tag in 2026
Regarding Pickens’ contract status, ESPN’s Todd Archer has indicated that the Cowboys are expected to apply the franchise tag on the wide receiver for the 2026 season. This move would secure Pickens at a salary near $27-28 million for the upcoming year, providing Dallas additional time to negotiate a longer-term deal.
Archer noted,
Since there have been zero discussions to this point on a long-term deal, connecting the dots to the franchise tag is easy to do,
underscoring the current stalemate in contract talks. Although the franchise tag offers a temporary solution, both sides could still pursue a long-term agreement if Pickens chooses to remain in Dallas beyond 2026.
Implications of Pickens’ Role for the Cowboys’ Future
George Pickens’ emergence as a top receiver has solidified a key position for the Cowboys offense, especially during CeeDee Lamb’s absence. The fan resistance to trading Pickens highlights his perceived value in maintaining the team’s offensive momentum. While bolstering the defense remains a concern, the consensus among supporters is that sacrificing Pickens could hinder the team’s progress.
With the franchise tag anticipated to be applied, Dallas retains leverage in contract negotiations, potentially shaping the team’s strategy heading into the 2026 season. How the Cowboys manage Pickens’ contract and any possible trade discussions will likely have lasting effects on their offensive and defensive balance.
