NBAPreview
Today's top games to watch, best bets, odds: Three NBA Game 3s, Cam Schlittler takes the Fenway mound and more
Tonight's top games: NBA playoffs and Yankees vs. Red Sox!
CBS Sports Headlines1 min read
NFL
Dallas Cowboys linked to major WR shake-up before 2026 NFL Draft
TL;DR
The Dallas Cowboys may undergo a significant wide receiver shake-up before the 2026 NFL Draft, with speculation around George Pickens' future. ESPN's Dan Orlovsky suggests the team might prioritize drafting a new receiver over retaining Pickens alongside CeeDee Lamb.
Key points
- Dallas Cowboys may face a wide receiver shake-up before 2026 NFL Draft
- Dan Orlovsky believes George Pickens' future is uncertain
- CeeDee Lamb's contract complicates the situation for Pickens
- Cowboys may draft a new receiver if top prospects are available
Dallas CowboysNFL
The Dallas Cowboys could be heading toward a major wide receiver shake-up ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky believes the front office may soon make a bold call involving George Pickens.
Speaking on ESPN’s Get Up, Orlovsky pointed to recent comments from executive Stephen Jones as a key signal. “It’s hard to pay two receivers top of the market,” Jones said, a line that raised questions about the future of Pickens alongside CeeDee Lamb.
Orlovsky did not hold back. “No doubt,” he said when asked if a split was coming. He noted Lamb is set to earn $46.2 million in 2027, making it unlikely Dallas commits similar money to Pickens.
MORE: Bills QB Josh Allen reveals new mindset ahead of 9th NFL season
“They’re not paying both CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens top of the market. Stephen Jones just said it,” Orlovsky said. “And so, right now my thought going into tonight with the draft is, if Jordan Tyson, the receiver out of Arizona State, or Carnell Tate, the receiver out of Ohio State, fall to number 12, even though the Cowboys need defensive players, they’re gonna take one of those receivers, and then the shopping for George Pickens starts.”
That decision could open the door for trade talks involving Pickens, who is currently on a franchise tag.
“He was traded for a third pick [in May 2025],” Orlovsky said. “If the Cowboys get a second-round pick for George Pickens coming off of last season, they should, and they draft a receiver tonight, that’s a good job by their front office.”
Pickens is coming off a standout season. He posted 93 catches, 1,429 yards, and nine touchdowns, earning Pro Bowl honors and All-Pro recognition. His production even edged Lamb in certain areas, forming one of the league’s top duos.
Still, Dallas faces roster balance issues after a 7-9-1 season. The offense ranked high, but the defense struggled, finishing last in points allowed. The team added new defensive pieces, yet draft strategy remains flexible.
MORE: Steelers’ Broderick Jones faces injury setback amid NFL offseason
Q&A
What did Dan Orlovsky say about George Pickens and the Cowboys?
Dan Orlovsky indicated that the Cowboys might be preparing to move on from George Pickens due to financial constraints with CeeDee Lamb's upcoming contract.
Why might the Cowboys draft a new wide receiver in 2026?
The Cowboys could draft a new wide receiver if players like Jordan Tyson or Carnell Tate are available, as they may not afford to keep both Lamb and Pickens.
What are Stephen Jones' comments regarding the Cowboys' wide receiver situation?
Stephen Jones mentioned that it's challenging to pay two receivers at the top of the market, hinting at potential changes in the Cowboys' wide receiver lineup.
