Cowboys have 'genuine interest' in extending George Pickens claims ESPN
Dallas Cowboys receiver George Pickens has been exactly what the franchise wanted him to be when they traded for him in the offseason.
Granted, no one likely expected Pickens to be playing at a near All-Pro level, but there's no denying he is Brian Schottenheimer's hottest weapon right now entering Thanksgiving.
As such, George's future has been a topic of hot discussion, and we have heard from Schottenheimer, Dak Prescott, and even Jerry Jones on how they love Pickens and ideally want him to remain a Cowboy beyond 2025.
So that's nothing new, and we also know that a franchise tag at roughly $28 million is also in play here.
And for ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, he's just laid out all the facts about Dallas' love for Pickens as it pertains to a possible extension in the offseason.
“The Cowboys have genuine interest in extending Pickens, and Pickens is very happy in Dallas, where he has caught 67 passes for 1,054 yards and 8 touchdowns in 11 games," Fowler writes. "But there have been no formal discussions about a long-term deal yet (it's early). Dallas is not afraid of the franchise tag number -- which should fall somewhere around $28 million in 2026 -- but hasn't determined whether to use it (again, it's early).
"The lack of fear about that number illustrates how strong the interest in Pickens should be in the offseason.”
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Cowboys have big Pickens decision to make in offseason
We know that the Cowboys already have a lot of money tied up with CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott, not to mention Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark, and Osa Odighizuwa all making near the top of the market money.
So, getting Pickens under the salary cap with a contract of at least $30 million APY is tough, but it is easily doable if the Cowboys want to.
Granted, a franchise tag next season could be the play here, with the Cowboys wanting to see George back it up for another season before signing him to a long-term deal.
So, there is plenty to think about, and also this. If Dallas re-signs Pickens and keeps Javonte Williams as well, the offense is set, leaving the front office to fully focus on the defense in free agency and the draft in the offseason.
This Pickens decision will tell us a lot about the Cowboys' front office folks.
BREAKING: Indianapolis Colts Release Rookie After All-Night Party, HC Sends Stern Message to Team!
Indianapolis, IN
According to inside sources, the rookie in question was spotted at a high-profile party in Indianapolis the night before the game, where he and several teammates stayed out late, completely disregarding the team’s curfew. Despite the clear rules set by the team to ensure players are rested and focused, the rookie ignored those expectations. While the full details of the party remain unclear, it is evident that his actions violated the team’s culture of accountability and respect for the game.
In a swift decision, head coach Carlie Irsay-Gordon made the decision to release the rookie immediately after the game. This bold move has left both the team and its fanbase stunned, especially given the rookie’s potential and the Colts’ push for playoff contention.
"We have a culture that is built on discipline, focus, and commitment to the game," Coach Irsay-Gordon said in a public statement. "When one player steps outside of those boundaries, it affects the entire team. We cannot allow distractions, and we will not tolerate behavior that undermines our standards."
The release of the rookie has sparked heated debate, with many fans and analysts questioning whether the Colts were too harsh in their response. Several players in the locker room have expressed concern over how this decision will affect the team’s chemistry moving forward.
The rookie’s release has left some to argue that the Colts overreacted, while others feel it was necessary to maintain discipline within the team and send a strong message about accountability.
"This decision is about more than just one player," Irsay-Gordon emphasized. "It’s about maintaining the integrity of this team and ensuring that everyone is held to the same high standards."
This release is sure to be a major talking point in the coming days as fans and the media dissect the Colts’ bold move. Will this action help the team refocus, or will it create tension in the locker room? Only time will tell as the Colts continue their pursuit of success in the remainder of the season.
Colts Set the Standard – Will More Shocking Moves Follow?
The Colts’ commitment to discipline remains central to their strategy as they continue their quest for a playoff spot. With a focus on team unity, accountability, and respect for the game, Coach Irsay-Gordon and the Colts are sending a clear message: no player is above the team, and maintaining discipline is key to their success moving forward.
