George Pickens Declines $120M+ Offers from New England and Chicago to Play Another Year with Cowboys — Willing to Sacrifice Up to 50% of His Market Value

Dallas, Texas – February 24, 2026

In a league where generational wealth usually drives every major decision, George Pickens just made one that defies conventional logic. According to multiple league sources, Pickens declined contract frameworks exceeding $120 million from both the New England Patriots and the Chicago Bears — choosing instead to remain with the Dallas Cowboys for at least one more season.

Dallas is expected to place the franchise tag on the 26-year-old wide receiver, locking him in at approximately $28 million for the 2026 campaign. While that is elite one-year money, it falls far short of the long-term security both New England and Chicago were reportedly prepared to guarantee — deals structured in the $30 million-per-year range over four or five seasons.

Pickens is coming off a career-defining year: 93 receptions, 1,429 yards, and nine touchdowns, finishing third in the NFL in receiving yards. In today’s receiver-driven market, that level of production typically translates into immediate financial leverage. Instead of cashing in, Pickens appears willing to gamble on himself.

By staying in Dallas under the franchise tag, he assumes significant risk. Another dominant season could elevate him into the very top tier of NFL earners. But an injury or regression could dramatically shrink his market value before he ever signs a long-term deal.

The decision, however, was never framed internally as a financial calculation. It was emotional.

“What’s $120 million if my heart isn’t in it? What’s a drop in value if I’m not where I’m meant to be? I don’t care about that. All I want right now is to stay in Dallas, compete, and give everything I have to the Cowboys. Money can buy a lot of things, but it will never replace what this organization has given me. This is home.”

Sources close to the situation say Pickens feels deeply connected to the locker room and the culture Dallas is building. The chemistry with his quarterback, the national spotlight that comes with wearing the star, and unfinished postseason business reportedly weighed heavily in his choice.

Cowboys executive Stephen Jones recently emphasized, “We want him here,” and that message appears to have resonated far beyond routine contract talk.

This isn’t simply about dollars. It’s about belief — belief in the system, belief in the roster, and belief in unfinished work. The Patriots and Bears were prepared to build their passing attacks around him immediately. Instead, Pickens doubled down on the Cowboys.

In an era defined by financial security, George Pickens just made a statement rooted in loyalty. And now, the pressure shifts back to Dallas to make sure that loyalty is ultimately rewarded.