"Per Breer, the Cowboys and Falcons may want to see that the 2025 performances of Pickens and Pitts, respectively, are sustainable and were not merely a contract-year flash. In Pitts' case, such an evaluation is purely an on-field one."
"His snap share jumped to 88% in 2025, and the increase in playing time coincided with an increase in production. If Pitts can replicate that showing in 2026 under new head coach Kevin Stefanski, a lucrative multiyear deal could be in the offing."
"The Cowboys, meanwhile, are hoping Pickens can not only be as effective between the lines as he was in 2025 (93/1,493/9), but also if he can stave off the maturity issues that ultimately forced the Steelers to trade him to Dallas in the first place."
George Pickens and Kyle Pitts received franchise tags from the Cowboys and Falcons, with both teams potentially using the 2026 season to assess performance sustainability. Pitts rebounded in 2025 with career-highs in receptions (88) and touchdowns (five) after years of injury struggles and underperformance, earning an 88% snap share. Pickens delivered strong 2025 production (93 receptions, 1,493 yards, 9 touchdowns) but faces scrutiny over maturity concerns that prompted his trade from Pittsburgh. The Cowboys' decision on Pickens is complicated by existing commitments to CeeDee Lamb. Both players' long-term contracts depend on replicating 2025 success under new coaching.
Read at Pro Football Rumors
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