NFL Franchise Tag Season Heats Up as Cowboys Eye George Pickens, Falcons Lock Down Kyle Pitts

The NFL franchise tag period is heating up with just weeks remaining before the March 11 deadline, as teams across the league make crucial decisions about their top talent. Two major developments have emerged in the past 24 hours that could significantly impact the upcoming free agency period.

Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones revealed Monday that the organization is "leaning toward" using their franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens, emphasizing the teams commitment to keeping the talented pass-catcher in Dallas. "We want him here," Jones stated during a press conference, indicating the Cowboys view Pickens as a cornerstone piece for their offensive future.

Pickens, who emerged as a legitimate WR1 option this past season, caught 89 passes for 1,247 yards and 8 touchdowns while forming an impressive connection with quarterback Dak Prescott. The former Georgia standouts combination of size, speed, and route-running ability has made him one of the most coveted receivers potentially entering free agency.

Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons have already pulled the trigger on their franchise tag decision, officially tagging tight end Kyle Pitts according to league sources. The move ensures Pitts will remain in Atlanta for at least one more season while the team continues working on a long-term extension.

Pitts, the fourth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has been a consistent offensive weapon for Atlanta despite dealing with various quarterback changes throughout his career. This past season, he recorded 74 catches for 976 yards and 6 touchdowns, proving his value as both a receiving threat and red zone target.

The franchise tag decisions reflect the premium teams are placing on offensive skill position players in todays pass-heavy NFL. With the tag value for wide receivers expected to exceed $19 million and tight ends around $13 million, these moves represent significant financial commitments from both organizations.

As the March 11 deadline approaches, several other players remain candidates for the franchise tag across the league. The decisions made in the coming weeks will set the stage for what promises to be an active and expensive free agency period.