Cowboys VP: Keeping Lamb, Pickens beyond 2026 difficult

Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones has indicated that retaining both star wide receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens beyond the 2026 season will present a significant financial challenge. Speaking on the DLLS Cowboys podcast this week, Jones stated that few teams can afford to pay two top receivers at the highest market value simultaneously. "I don't know of any teams that really can pay two top receivers top of the market, so that's going to be a real difficult situation as we move forward," Jones said. He acknowledged that the team managed to make it work for the current season, but if both players replicate their strong performances, the situation will become more complex next year. Pickens, 25, is set to play the 2026 season on the franchise tag, which guarantees him $27.3 million. He was acquired by the Cowboys via trade and had a breakout 2025 season, recording 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. His performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro honors. The team placed the franchise tag on him in February after failing to reach a multiyear agreement by the July 15 deadline.