Pickens totaled 90 receptions for 1,409 yards and nine touchdowns in his first season as a Cowboy – all of which are career highs. While the Cowboys failed to make the postseason despite boasting the No. 2 ranked offense, Pickens showed off his skills once again in this week’s Pro Bowl with several highlights, culminating in him earning the NFL’s All-Star Offensive MVP.
Pickens is well aware that his “price tag went up” in the aftermath of the campaign and made it clear he would “love to” be in Dallas this week. But given the Cowboys’ expensive roster, which includes quarterback Dak Prescott, WR CeeDee Lamb, OL Tyler Smith, and defensive tackles Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark, it will take work to keep Pickens.
With the WR market skyrocketing in recent years, Pickens is expected to make up to $20 million per year in his next contract. The Cowboys could also decide to hand the franchise tag to WR, which is estimated to guarantee him $28 million-plus through the 2026 season.
Prescott believes it is “critical” for the Cowboys to find a way to keep Pickens.
“I think it has to be done,” Prescott said at the Pro Bowl. “I think everyone from Jerry on down understands that, and one of the effects on this offense and the team and the great player he is, we’ve got to find a way to keep him here.”
Lamb took it one step further on Friday, telling the Dan Patrick Show on Friday that he would be willing to restructure his $136 million contract “if necessary” to keep Pickens.
“I know he’s going to get every penny he deserves here in Dallas,” Lamb added.
Pickens appears to have found a home in Dallas in 2025, and his teammates are clearly on board with him remaining a Cowboy. We will see this in the offseason if the club can ensure he is the backbone.