Cowboys add WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling amid uncertainty on George Pickens

Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz, USA TODAYMon, April 27, 2026 at 8:17 PM UTC

0

The Dallas Cowboys are adding a little additional help in their receiving amid uncertainty about George Pickens' status.

On Monday, April 27, the Cowboys agreed to a one-year deal with Marquez Valdes-Scantling, according to multiple reports.

Valdez-Scantling, 31, recorded career lows of 14 catches for 120 yards last season, playing five games apiece for the San Francisco 49ers and Pittsburgh Steelers. In 2024, however, he flexed his field-stretching ability by averaging 21.6 yards per catch.

The veteran figures to be a depth piece for a receiving corps lacking clarity on one of its most potent weapons.

Advertisement

More: Cowboys defense can't get much worse. NFL draft help should make it better | Opinion

Pickens has yet to sign his franchise tender but still plans to, ESPN reported Monday. Doing so will guarantee the Pro Bowl pass catcher $27.3 million next season but also subject him to fines if he misses mandatory minicamp or training camp.

Though Pickens can be traded once he signs his tender, Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones said on April 23 the team had no intention of moving the target, who led Dallas in receptions (93), receiving yards (1,429) and touchdown catches (nine) in 2025.

"We have no intention of moving George," Jones said after Day 1 of the NFL draft wrapped up Thursday night. "In our mind, we're fired up about it. Ready to come in here and sign his tender, in our mind, that means go to work."

One day earlier, the Cowboys revealed they would not engage with Pickens in any discussions on a long-term contract extension prior to the end of next season.

1 / 0See 2026 NFL Draft first round picks, from No. 1 to No. 32

1. Las Vegas Raiders – QB Fernando Mendoza, IndianaThe first round of the 2026 NFL Draft brings franchise‑defining moments as teams make their selections from the top of the board.See how picks 1 through 32 came off the clock as the next generation of NFL talent enters the league.

1 / 0Roger Goodell shares hugs with players on the NFL draft stage

The NFL Draft regularly produces its most memorable moments off the stage, when selections end with a handshake or embrace from the commissioner.See the moments when draft night emotions peak as Roger Goodell greets players hearing their names called.Above, Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker David Bailey embraces NFL commissioner Roger Goodell after he is selected by the New York Jets as the number two pick during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cowboys sign Marquez Valdes-Scantling amid George Pickens uncertainty

Original Article on Source

Source: “AOL Sports”