PFT Live with Mike Florio Cowboys plan to franchise tag George Pickens + Will Colts get a new deal done with Daniel Jones? (2/24 Hour 1)
Feb 24, 2026
Discussion of the Cowboys leaning toward using the franchise tag on George Pickens and the negotiation chess around his contract. Debate over how Pickens fits with Dak Prescott and whether Dallas might trade other pieces. Conversation about the Colts weighing Daniel Jones’ future after an Achilles injury and the pros and cons of a costly tag versus alternative QB plans.
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Cowboys Using Franchise Tag To Lower Market Price
- The Cowboys plan to franchise tag George Pickens to keep him for $28M despite market rates being much higher.
- Mike Florio notes the tag lags the market, letting Dallas 'squat' on Pickens and force leverage for a cheaper deal.
Tagging Creates A PR Trap For Pickens
- Tagging creates a PR and leverage trap where Pickens could be painted as entitled if he resists the one-year $28M tender.
- Florio warns a pushback invites narratives about past Pittsburgh issues and risks a media backlash.
Use The Tag As A Negotiation Starting Point
- Teams often use the tag as negotiation leverage, then convert it to a long-term deal using the tagged salary as a base.
- Florio explains the Cowboys could tag now and negotiate a multi-year contract starting from the tag's lower figure.