Stephen Jones: 'We have zero intention of moving George Pickens'
Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones told reporters after Round 1 of the draft that the team plans to keep wide receiver George Pickens, who reportedly became trade eligible Thursday.
"We have zero intention of moving George Pickens," Jones said, according to Clarence Hill Jr. of DLLS Sports.
Pickens reportedly signed his franchise tag, locking him into a one-year, fully guaranteed $27.3-million deal for the 2026 campaign. Jones said during a press conference Wednesday that Dallas had decided to stop negotiations on a potential long-term contract.
"In our mind, we're fired up about it, that he's ready to come in here and sign his tender," Jones added Thursday. "In our mind, that means go to work. ... So far, everything has been outstanding. Our communication with George, coach (Brian) Schottenheimer, and Jerry (Jones). Our communication with (Pickens' agent) David Mulugheta has been very cordial and upbeat.
"We've got every reason in the world to believe that hopefully he's ready to go to work."
Pickens was set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason before the Cowboys placed the tag on him in February. He had a career year in his first season with Dallas, recording 93 catches for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. The 25-year-old also earned a second-team All-Pro nod after ranking third in the league in receiving yards.
The Cowboys made a splash in the first round of the draft by moving up one spot to select standout safety Caleb Downs out of Ohio State with the No. 11 pick. They later took UCF edge rusher Malachi Lawrence with the 23rd overall selection.