Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott has sidestepped direct comment on the ongoing contract negotiations involving teammate George Pickens, who remains unsigned as the team prepares for the 2025 season. Last month, Prescott had advised Pickens to “bet on yourself” if the Cowboys opted to place the franchise tag on him—a stance that drew attention for its potential influence on the receiver’s decision-making.
Prescott addressed the matter briefly on Friday during the Children’s Cancer Fund anniversary gala, where he emphasized that his offseason training with Pickens was no different from previous years. “We’re just working, no different than I have any offseason,” Prescott said, according to video provided by Jon Machota of TheAthletic.com. “Obviously, first real offseason with George being a part of it, and he’s showed up and been active, has looked great. So super excited, leaving all that, those contract talks and that off to the front office.”
The Cowboys have yet to begin their voluntary offseason program, and Pickens faces a critical decision: sign the franchise tag, which guarantees him $27.298 million for the 2025 season, or agree to a participation contract to join team activities. Sources indicate Pickens is unlikely to sign the tag immediately, leaving his availability for offseason workouts in doubt.
Pickens’ primary leverage lies in his absence from team facilities. The Cowboys have until July 15 to negotiate a long-term contract with the wide receiver, but reports suggest the organization is hesitant to commit significant financial resources beyond the 2026 season. As a result, Pickens appears poised to play the 2025 season under the franchise tag unless a last-minute agreement is reached.
The situation underscores the delicate balance between player empowerment and team control in the NFL’s contract landscape, with Pickens’ next move likely to set the tone for his immediate future with the Cowboys.
