If Pickens is unsure what to do, well, Cowboys legend Darren Woodson just outlined the path for 2026.
The George Pickens contract situation with the Dallas Cowboys is now becoming a big headline that Brian Schottenheimer doesn't want.
With the Cowboys making it clear they aren't negotiating a long-term deal with Pickens this offseason, preferring to tag him, some think this is the beginning of the end for George in Dallas.
Whether or not he signs the franchise tag is unknown; despite reports that Pickens will sign it, it's just a matter of when.
But that hasn't stopped the crazy scenarios from flying around, such as Pickens holding out all offseason and through Week 10 before signing it.
With the Micah Parsons saga still fresh in the memory for Cowboys Nation, fans don't want another offseason soured by a contract dispute that could easily be resolved.
And for Cowboys legend Darren Woodson, who was a guest on the Straight Facts Homie podcast with Trey Wingo, does he think George will be a Cowboy in 2026?
"In my heart of hearts, I think he will be there Week One,” Woodson said. “If I had any counseling or say one thing to George Pickens, play the one year. You've changed the perception of you,people are seeing that in the building. You've changed the image of who you are. Next year will be a big year.
"He's going to have a big contract. Just do what he did last year. Show up every day. He may even get a ring out of this or close to a ring or something. He played at a level last year, his attitude was good, who wouldn't pick him up next year if you're looking for a number one wide receiver?"
What Woody is saying to George is bet on yourself.
After a good 2025, both on and off the field, the perception of Pickens is starting to change, but Dallas and maybe other teams want to see more.
So, do it again.
If Pickens plays well, produces another 1,200 yards and 8 TDs, while staying on the straight and narrow, that could open up a lot of possibilities for him next offseason.
Not to mention the sizeable contract he could get because teams now know that the Pickens they saw in Pittsburgh is long gone.
The only person who stands to lose from not playing on the tag is Pickens.
Having done so much heavy lifting to shift the public perception, now isn't the time to throw it all away in search of more money.
Yes, it's easier said than done, but a word to the wise -- maybe listen to Mr. Woodson, George.