Jerry Jones isn’t worried about George Pickens’ antics; but Cowboys face massive franchise tag call originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is downplaying any worries for fans that there is bad blood between George Pickens and the 83-year-old owner and general manager. It comes just a day after reports surfaced that Pickens was fined multiple times by the franchise for being late to meetings and violating curfew.
Speaking with the Dallas Morning News, Jones reframed those as minor issues compared to Pickens’ value and buy‑in with the team. Joking, “I’ve missed a few myself…something came up,” signaling he doesn’t view the any late meeting appearances as a major stopping point in the long game.
Coming into 2025, Pickens was widely viewed as the Cowboys’ ultimate X‑factor — a talented but volatile former Steeler whom many analysts pegged as a prime breakout candidate in Dallas’ pass‑heavy offense.
Pickens had a standout first season in Dallas, with 93 catches, 1,429 yards, and nine touchdowns, plus a Pro Bowl appearance. With the franchise tag window open, the Cowboys are deciding between tagging him or offering a long-term deal.
Jones assured that the franchise doesn’t see those things as something to hold against Pickens. Adding that as long as Pickens cares about the team and their ultimate goal, small things like being late to meetings are “forgivable.” Dallas faces a March 3 deadline to decide whether to tag Pickens, extend him, or let him reach free agency, and the expectation is they will tag him if a deal isn’t done in time.
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