The Cowboys acquired Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick from the Pittsburgh Steelers last March for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 seventh-round pick.
Pickens, a former second-round pick, went on to have his most productive campaign in 2025, posting 93 catches for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. Making sure production didn’t leave the building was Dallas’ top priority. With Pickens and CeeDee Lamb together, Dak Prescott has the firepower for the Cowboys to remain an explosive, top-seed in 2026.
The question going forward is whether the Cowboys, who are currently over the salary cap, can sign Pickens to a long-term deal. Eight wide receivers make $30-plus million per season, including Lamb’s $34 million, meaning Pickens should be looking at a big payday with a multi-year extension. Another option to consider is trading Pickens while he’s on the franchise tag – the player has to sign the franchise offer for that to happen.
Until Pickens signs the franchise tender, or a special extension before July 15, he is not considered under contract and cannot be fined for missing any mandatory work this season.