# Ex-NFL GM Says Cowboys Exploring Trade for Pickens

> Former Titans GM Ran Carthon claims Cowboys are 'definitely exploring' trading George Pickens before deadline.
- Title: Ex-NFL GM Says Cowboys Exploring Trade for Pickens | Shortify
- Summary: Former Titans GM Ran Carthon claims Cowboys are 'definitely exploring' trading George Pickens before deadline.
- Keywords: dallas cowboys, george pickens, tennessee titans, ran carthon, cowboys trade deadline, wide receiver, nfl, cowboys trade, football trade, Dallas Cowboys On SI
- Source: Dallas Cowboys On SI — https://si.com/nfl/cowboys/onsi/ex-nfl-gm-not-buying-dallas-cowboys-rumored-stance-george-pickens-trade
- Published: 2026-11-09T19:55:46+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: dallas cowboys, george pickens, tennessee titans, ran carthon, cowboys trade deadline, wide receiver, nfl, cowboys trade, football trade, sports
## Rumors of Cowboys trading Pickens
Rumors suggest Dallas Cowboys aren't interested in trading wide receiver George Pickens.
## Nick Harris and Rapoport report no trade plans
Fort Worth Star-Telegram's Nick Harris says Cowboys have no plans to trade Pickens, and NFL Network's Ian Rapoport says nothing is going on there.
## Carthon disagrees with Cowboys stance
Former Tennessee Titans general manager Ran Carthon isn't buying that and believes Cowboys are 'definitely exploring' trading their No. 2 receiver before deadline.
## Carthon's reasoning for trade
Carthon says Cowboys are exploring trade because they won't sign Pickens to a long-term deal, and Ryan Flournoy offers a reliable option.
## Pickens' future in Dallas
The writing is on the wall that Pickens is not going to be back in 2027.
## Stephen Jones on financial constraints
Co-owner Stephen Jones says it's tough to keep two high-paid wide receivers on roster if they extend or tag Pickens in 2027.
## Financial impact of keeping Pickens
Keeping Pickens ties up money that could be used for defense overhaul or extending Joey Porter Jr. in next offseason.
## Tag-and-trade scenario
If Cowboys tag Pickens, they'll have money on books until moved, which could hinder free agency if trade isn't quick.
## Best course of action
Best options are trading Pickens now or letting him walk in free agency next offseason for compensatory pick.
## Why trading Pickens is better
Trading Pickens avoids financial strain and keeps money for defense improvements, as keeping him doesn't help playoff hopes in 2026.
## Key takeaway

Dallas Cowboys may trade wide receiver George Pickens before trade deadline as they face financial constraints with two high-paid receivers.