Cowboys executive VP Stephen Jones said the team is “not putting any time frame” on getting a new deal done with George Pickens.

27 February 2026

Perhaps even more importantly, Jones added, “the most important thing is live in the present.” Inspirational words from the co-owner of a team who seemingly botched its last big-time negotiation with a superstar less than a year ago. Pickens was officially franchise tagged by the Cowboys on Friday and will earn just under $28 million on the tag if he is unable to secure a long-term deal. Jones said Pickens was “fired up” to learn he would be returning to the Cowboys for next season. We’ll see if he maintains that same enthusiasm if a long-term deal isn’t in place as training camp draws closer.