George Pickens' future in Dallas is no longer a sure thing. After quieting his doubters and improving his reputation with a breakout season for the Cowboys in 2025, owner and general manager Jerry Jones insisted for weeks that locking up the receiver to a long-term deal was inevitable. Well, that can't happen now.
On Wednesday, ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter claimed in an episode Rise That "They're nowhere with George Pickens at this point. Nowhere. They're not really talking about an extension." Later in the day, Cowboys COO Stephen Jones told Dallas media, "There will be no negotiations on a long-term deal," and the pass catcher will play on his $27.3 million franchise tag next season.
This has led to much speculation that the team may consider moving Pickens during the NFL Draft, specifically in Round 1. If he makes that bold move, let's take a look at five teams that could acquire the player who posted 93 catches, 1,429 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in 2025.
Arizona Cardinals
There's a lot of talk that Dallas would prefer to move up to No. 3 and select David Bailey or Arvel Reese — or whoever the New York Jets don't take at No. 2. Either could be a long-term solution to fill the gap left in the pass rush after trading Micah Parsons last year.
However, some question whether the 'Guys, giving up their picks at Nos. 12 and 20, will be tempting to the Arizona Cardinals. But if they offer Pickens and the No. 20 pick as well as the third-day pick, it could be enough. While the Cards have a messy QB situation, the combo of Pickens and Marvin Harrison Jr. will be good weapons for their signal-caller in 2026 and beyond.
New York Jets
The Cowboys could also try to move up to No. 2 as rumors have been swirling for weeks that the Jets are willing to trade down.
New York coach Aaron Glenn is feeling a lot of pressure to perform better in 2026 or he may be fired. They have high expectations for veteran QB Geno Smith. So getting another big weapon like Pickens could potentially lead to a drastic change in the offense next season. Dallas could benefit from Glenn's frustration and get whoever they want at No. 2.
los angeles chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers are looking to take another big step forward in Year 2 under head coach Jim Harbaugh. They lack a game-breaker receiver in 2025. If Pickens were acquired he could help elevate them into a true Super Bowl contender. Due to the impact Pickens can have on offensive coordinator Mike McDaniels' system, LA may be willing to drop their pick at 22 for the receiver and give him an extension to serve as Justin Herbert's WR1 for years to come.
Los Angeles Rams
At the beginning of the offseason, the Los Angeles Rams showed they were fully prepared to finish their Super Bowl story when they gave up the No. 29 pick in Round 1 to the Kansas City Chiefs for All-Pro Trent McDuffie. Reports linked him to a possible trade for Philadelphia Eagles star AJ Brown last month. However, they backed out of a deal.
Would LA be willing to give up their pick at 13 in Round 1 for Pickens? Probably not. However, a deal that sends pick No. 13 and Davante Adams to Dallas for Pickens, pick 20, and a third-rounder could be possible. The Cowboys will have picks 12 and 13 in Round 1, as well as a good replacement for Pickens. While the Rams make a lethal WR duo for reigning MVP Matthew Stafford next season.
new England Patriots
Another team that can't be ruled out in the potential George Pickens trade market is the New England Patriots. They desperately need a young receiver if they hope to have a real chance to get back to the Super Bowl next season.
They are among the teams interested in AJ Brown. However, it may cost two first-round picks. Giving up their pick at No. 31 on Thursday night, plus a third-rounder, could be enough to get them the WR1 Drake Mays wants.
