The Dallas Cowboys are facing a familiar dilemma with their star players' contract negotiations. Will history repeat itself?
The team's relationship with Micah Parsons turned sour when they couldn't agree on a long-term contract, leading to Parsons' absence from most offseason activities and training camp. Eventually, the Cowboys traded Parsons, a top-tier edge rusher, to the Green Bay Packers before the season began.
Now, a similar scenario unfolds with wide receiver George Pickens. The Cowboys are expected to use the franchise tag on Pickens, but there's uncertainty about a long-term deal. Pickens, who had an impressive 2025 season, leading the team in targets, catches, yards, and touchdowns, will not be under contract until he signs the tag, which he's unlikely to do right away.
Coach Brian Schottenheimer, however, remains optimistic. He assures that Pickens' situation will resolve itself, emphasizing Pickens' passion for the sport and their strong relationship. Schottenheimer even draws a comparison to his relationship with CeeDee Lamb, who signed a lucrative contract extension before the 2024 season, securing a guaranteed $100 million.
But here's where it gets controversial: Pickens might be aiming for a similar or even higher salary than Lamb's $34 million per season. Is Pickens worth the investment?
Schottenheimer hopes to retain Pickens beyond 2026, recalling his competitive spirit and their playful free-throw shooting contest in Schottenheimer's office. Yet, the question remains: Will the Cowboys' contract strategy pay off this time, or will they face another contentious negotiation?
