Mason Cameron of Pro Football Focus recently identified the New York Jets as the best landing spot for star Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens, who is set to hit free agency this offseason.
Obviously, in a perfect world for the Cowboys, they would be able to retain Pickens, but the team’s limited cap space, which currently sits at $29,168,257 according to OverTheCap, could put them in a position where a long-term deal is not realistic.
“The Cowboys lack the cap space to facilitate a long-term deal, and recent reports from NFL insider Ian Rapoport indicate that Pickens could be a candidate for the franchise tag and a subsequent trade,” wrote Cameron.
If the Cowboys ultimately opt to franchise tag George Pickens with the intention of trading him for draft assets, the Jets make a lot of sense as a potential suitor. New York is rich in draft capital over the next few years and also holds a significant amount of cap space, currently at $83,263,050 according to OverTheCap.
“Not many teams have both the necessary cap space and draft capital to make the potential move. However, one team that does fit the bill is the New York Jets, who possess nine combined draft picks in Rounds 1-3 over the next two drafts and hold the fourth-most cap space ($83.2 million) entering the offseason,” wrote Cameron.
GettyWR George Pickens.
What A Move Like This Would Mean For The Jets
The overall consensus is that the Jets will consider addressing the wide receiver room as one of their major priorities this offseason, as the team is in need of another consistent option to pair with Garrett Wilson.
Wilson, who appeared in just seven games during the 2025 season due to injury, was still statistically the most productive wide receiver on the Jets’ roster. He led the team in receiving yards with 395. That fact alone highlights New York’s need for another reliable option on the field, and adding Pickens would immediately address that concern.
A move bringing Pickens to New York this offseason would instantly give the Jets one of the most dangerous wide receiver duos in the league. Each receiver brings elite skills that would complement one another well in the same offense, and what has been one of the Jets’ weaker position groups could quickly become their biggest strength.
GettyPickens is set to be a free agent this offseason.
After Breakout Year, Pickens Could Cash In Big
Pickens surprised many around the league in 2025, his first year in Dallas. The 24-year-old wide receiver quickly emerged as one of the league’s biggest playmakers.
This past season, Pickens recorded an impressive 93 receptions for 1,429 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 15.4 yards per catch, according to ESPN.
After such a strong season, there is no question that Pickens will likely expect a large contract, as he is considered the top player set to hit free agency by many experts.
With Dallas likely not in the financial position to make a lucrative long-term offer to Pickens, they could consider franchise tagging him, which might open the door for a trade. If that happens, the Jets are one of the better-positioned teams to make a move.
GettyIf Dallas places the franchise tag on Pickens, the Jets could attempt to make a trade for him.
Mike Gruseke Mike Gruseke is a dedicated Heavy NFL contributor specializing in coverage of the New York Jets, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Pittsburgh Steelers. A graduate of Monmouth University with a B.A. in Journalism, Mike previously served as a Sports Writer for The Outlook. Most recently, he has contributed to the Asbury Park Press as a sports writer, continuing to combine his passion for football and his background in journalism. More about Mike Gruseke
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