Cowboys Eyeing Franchise Tag for Pickens, Tag-and-Trade Possible

The Dallas Cowboys are expected to place the franchise tag on WR George Pickens, but a tag-and-trade scenario remains a strong possibility. Pickens, who turns 25 in March, had a breakout season with 93 receptions, 1,429 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors. The franchise tag for a WR is estimated at $28.8 million. The window for tagging opens Feb. 17 and closes March 3, with free agency starting March 9. Owner Jerry Jones desires to keep him long-term, but the team has traded stars before.