As the 2025 NFL season concludes, teams are actively preparing for upcoming roster moves, including placing franchise tags on pivotal players to retain their services amidst free agency. The Dallas Cowboys recently chose to apply the franchise tag to wide receiver George Pickens, aiming to secure his presence despite the expiration of his contract. This decision drew strong criticism from ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith, who publicly questioned the wisdom behind the Cowboys’ approach toward Pickens’ contract situation.
Stephen A. Smith Voices Strong Concerns Over Cowboys’ Use of Franchise Tag on Pickens
On ESPN’s First Take, Stephen A. Smith expressed clear disapproval of the Dallas Cowboys’ handling of George Pickens’ contract status. Smith cautioned that tagging Pickens might create tension, as the wide receiver may prioritize personal business choices when uncertain about his long-term future with the team. Smith urged the Cowboys’ leadership—owner Jerry Jones, president, and general manager—to either commit to retaining Pickens with a long-term contract or release him, warning that indecision could backfire.
“Having (George) Pickens under a franchise tag. I don’t know how good that is for the Cowboys. If he’s worried about his long-term decisions about his long-term future, he’s going to go out there and make what they call business decisions,” Smith stated on the show.
?Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Analyst
“I don’t like the fact that they’re in a position to do this to George Pickens, keep him long-term or let him go, because chances are if he’s under a franchise tag, again, Peter, he’s going to be out there making business decisions. We’ve seen him make what we deem to be business decisions before this situation. Imagine what he’s going to be if you franchise tag him,” he further elaborated.
?Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Analyst
George Pickens’ Performance Justifies Cowboys’ Decision Amid Contract Debate
George Pickens enjoyed an impressive 2025 campaign after joining the Dallas Cowboys, participating in 17 games and recording 93 receptions from 137 targets, accumulating 1,429 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. Given these standout statistics, it is understandable that the Cowboys aim to maintain control over the young receiver’s services heading into the next season. However, the franchise’s choice to employ the franchise tag—rather than securing a long-term deal—has sparked debate regarding its effects on team dynamics and Pickens’ future.
Understanding the NFL Franchise Tag and Its Variants
In the NFL, the franchise tag allows teams to retain a player who is approaching free agency by offering a one-year contract based on the average salaries of top players at the same position. Teams can choose among three types of franchise tags, each with different restrictions and implications:
Non-exclusive tags permit players to negotiate with other teams, but their current team can match any offer or receive draft pick compensation if they choose not to match. Exclusive tags prevent the player from negotiating with other teams, binding them solely to their current franchise. Transition tags closely resemble non-exclusive tags but provide the team the right to match outside offers without draft pick compensation if they decline to match.
It remains unclear which category of franchise tag the Cowboys have applied to Pickens, leaving uncertainty about his ability to explore outside offers or leverage in contract negotiations.
Potential Consequences for Pickens and the Dallas Cowboys
The tension surrounding the use of the franchise tag on George Pickens could shape both his performance and future with the Cowboys. Smith’s commentary highlights the risk that Pickens might prioritize personal business interests if he perceives his long-term career with Dallas as uncertain. This scenario could impact team chemistry and overall strategy, especially given Pickens’ emerging role as a top receiver.
The Cowboys’ decision signals a cautious approach from management, possibly aiming to retain financial flexibility while weighing Pickens’ value. However, if Smith’s warnings resonate, the franchise might face mounting pressure to either extend a long-term contract or allow Pickens to move on. The next steps will significantly influence team dynamics heading into the 2026 NFL season.
https://twitter.com/FirstTake/status/2026325893124108603
