Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens is the most intriguing potential 2026 free agent, according to ESPN\'s Jeremy Fowler. Pickens is on pace for over 1,400 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in his first season with Dallas after arriving via trade.
The former Pittsburgh Steelers receiver has provided an ideal complement to CeeDee Lamb in the Cowboys offense. Most league sources expect Pickens to perform well on the open market if he reaches free agency.
Dallas holds the option to apply a franchise tag that would cost approximately $29 million. ESPN\'s Dan Graziano believes the Cowboys will likely use that tag if Pickens maintains his current production through season\'s end.
The franchise tag would prevent Pickens from testing the market and negotiating with other teams. Many top potential free agents never reach the open market due to extensions or tags.
\"I believe there\'s a strong likelihood that the Cowboys franchise Pickens, assuming they remain as happy with him by the end of the season as they\'ve been so far,\" Graziano said.
Pickens\' talent level has impressed evaluators around the league. His ability to stretch the field while working alongside Lamb has transformed Dallas\' passing attack this season.
The 2026 free agent class remains fluid as teams assess whether to commit long-term money to key players. Pickens represents the rare combination of elite talent and uncertain contract status that makes free agency speculation compelling.