According to insider Tom Pelissero via his X account, the two-time Super Bowl champion is joining America’s Team on a one-year contract. Valdes-Scantling joins a receiving corps that already features the experience and talent of CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens.

Now it remains to be seen what will happen from here on out with the veteran quarterback in Steel City. Will Rodgers return for another year seeking revenge, or will he instead choose to continue his career elsewhere?

The second stint of Rodgers and Valdes-Scantling has come to an end

During their time together with the Green Bay Packers (2018–2021), Aaron Rodgers and Marquez Valdes-Scantling established a potent deep-threat connection, with MVS hauling in 123 receptions for 2,153 yards and 13 touchdowns from the four-time MVP. Their chemistry peaked in 2020, when Valdes-Scantling led the NFL with an explosive 20.9 yards per reception.

Fast forward to their reunion with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025, Rodgers managed to throw for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions across 16 games. While Valdes-Scantling’s role was more limited during this second stint—recording just 14 catches for 120 yards and one touchdown in 10 appearances—his presence provided a familiar veteran target for Rodgers as they navigated a transition year in the AFC North.

The weapons available to Dak Prescott

Dak Prescott will have a versatile set of weapons for the 2026 season, as Marquez Valdes-Scantling joins a deep rotation headlined by superstar CeeDee Lamb and second-year breakout Ryan Flournoy.

While MVS adds much-needed speed to the perimeter, the surplus of talent in the wide receiver room could signal a George Pickens trade, especially as the Cowboys weigh the cost of Pickens’ $27.3 million franchise tag against long-term roster stability.

With these options at his disposal, Prescott is well-positioned to command a high-octane offense that blends veteran experience with explosive youth:

Pickens, acquired in a trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers, delivered an outstanding campaign in what was the final year of his rookie deal. With his production surging and his role firmly established in the offense, he is now seeking a multi-year extension worth around $35 million per season, aiming to become one of the highest-paid receivers in the league.

For now, the Cowboys have taken a different route. They opted to place the non-exclusive franchise tag on Pickens rather than finalize a long-term deal, a move that has only intensified speculation about his future. Speaking on 105.3 The Fan, executive vice president Stephen Jones said: “We’ve had no one call with interest in George Pickens.”

Could Cowboys trade George Pickens?

Despite Jones’ comments, trade rumors have not gone away. When a player of Pickens’ caliber is involved in a contract dispute, interest can develop quickly, especially if other teams believe the situation could escalate.

At the same time, the franchise tag creates a complicated dynamic. It gives Dallas short-term control, but it does not resolve the long-term question. If negotiations stall or tensions rise, the possibility of a trade could resurface, even if no offers have materialized yet. That’s what happened with the Steelers.

For the Cowboys, this is about balance. Keeping a high-level weapon for Prescott is crucial, but so is managing the salary cap and avoiding a deal that could limit future flexibility. How they handle Pickens in the coming months may define not just his future, but the direction of the offense moving forward.

“We’re just working, no different than I have any offseason,” the quarterback said during the Children’s Cancer Fund anniversary gala, via video from Jon Machota of TheAthletic.com. “Obviously, first real offseason with George being a part of it, and he’s showed up and been active, has looked great. So super excited, leaving all that, those contract talks and that off to the front office.”

Cowboys haven’t kicked off their voluntary offseason program yet. However, for the wide receiver to take part, he would need to either sign the franchise tag—worth $27.298 million for one season—or agree to a participation deal, which is not expected to happen.

A lethal duo in Dallas

The connection between Dak Prescott and George Pickens became the centerpiece of the Dallas Cowboys’ high-powered aerial attack last season. Prescott orchestrated a prolific campaign, finishing the season with 4,552 passing yards and 30 touchdowns against only 10 interceptions, earning a 99.5 passer rating and a Pro Bowl selection.

His primary deep threat, George Pickens, thrived in his first year in Dallas, setting career highs across the board with 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and 9 touchdowns. Averaging 15.4 yards per catch, Pickens provided the vertical explosive element Schottenheimer envisioned, helping the Cowboys maintain the NFL’s second-best offense and solidifying a dominant partnership that redefined the team’s offensive identity.

The Cowboys’ wide receiver corps

Beyond the options that George Pickens can give him in the offense, Dak Prescott also has other high-level targets, such as CeeDee Lamb.

The next NFL Draft in sight

The defense was undoubtedly one of the weak points of this team last season. Will they look to strengthen that area? These are the picks that Jerry Jones and company will soon have at their disposal.

• Round 1: No. 12
• Round 1: No. 20
• Round 3: No. 92
• Round 4: No. 112
• Round 5: No. 152
• Round 5: No. 177
• Round 5: No. 180
• Round 7: No. 218

However, the defensive side of the ball tells a different story. The departure of Micah Parsons left a massive void in 2025, stripping the unit of playmaking at the edge rusher position. While the additions of Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark provide a significant boost in the trenches, the defense still lacks the depth and versatility needed to compete with the NFL’s top contenders.

That imbalance could define Jones’ strategy heading into draft night. With a roster that feels close but incomplete, the Cowboys are widely expected to be aggressive. A trade, particularly one aimed at securing a defensive cornerstone, could happen early trying to chase that elusive Super Bowl.

Who will the Cowboys draft in 2026?

One projection gaining traction involves a bold move up the board in a trade with the Cleveland Browns at No. 6 to land linebacker Sonny Styles, a prospect viewed as a potential defensive centerpiece. Mel Kiper Jr. outlined the reasoning behind such a move, emphasizing just how urgent the Cowboys’ defensive needs are.

“Dallas wasn’t stopping anyone last season. We’ve all wondered whether the Cowboys would use both of their first-round picks on defense this month, but this trade up the board might have a greater impact, even if it means sacrificing one of those Day 1 selections. Styles is my No. 4 prospect, and he is explosive (43½-inch vertical jump), rangy (4.46 in the 40-yard dash) and productive (77 tackles last season).”

That scenario would signal a clear shift in priorities for Dallas. Rather than spreading resources across multiple needs, the Cowboys would be targeting a high-impact defender capable of transforming the unit immediately. Styles’ athletic profile and production suggest he could step in as a tone-setter from day one.

Speaking in an interview on FOX, Jones openly acknowledged the urgency to fix the defense. “Well, I’ll tell you, I believe we’ve done one thing. We’re figuring out how to stop them. We can’t do anything but go up there. That’s where we address and that’s where we’re putting our energy and our money.”

The Cowboys already possess one of the most dangerous offenses in the league with Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens leading the way. That firepower was evident during the 2025 season, when Dallas consistently moved the ball and produced points. However, the defense struggled badly, finishing as one of the worst units in the NFL and often forcing the offense into high-scoring battles.

Cowboys shift focus to defense in Super Bowl push

Because of those struggles, defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus was dismissed and the Cowboys brought in a bright young mind in Christian Parker as DC. The move signals a philosophical reset, with Dallas aiming to modernize the scheme and generate more consistency.

If the Cowboys manage to reach a top-15 level on defense while the offense maintains the spectacular production, the team’s ceiling rises dramatically. With Prescott operating efficiently and weapons across the field, even an average defensive improvement could translate into several more wins. That balance is exactly what Dallas lacked in recent seasons.

Under that scenario, there is little doubt the Cowboys would become contenders in the NFC East. More importantly, a balanced roster could open the door for an improbable Super Bowl run. The offense is already in place, and now Jerry Jones is betting that a defensive overhaul will finally push Dallas into championship territory.

“My dad grew up a big Cowboys fan. He said when you were growing up you were either kind of a Cowboys fan or Steelers fan, so I was a Cowboys fan,“ he said via Jon Machota.

“I was a big fan of the Cowboys. I loved Tony Romo. I love watching Romo play. Even when I was in college, watching Dak play. Big fan of Dak and big fan of all the players I watched growing up.”

Cowboys QB room this 2026

Heading into the 2026 season, Dak Prescott continues to command the Cowboys’ locker room as the undisputed leader, especially after his massive four-year, $240 million extension provided the stability the franchise needed.

The competition behind him has intensified with the arrival of Sam Howell, who recently signed a one-year, $2.5 million contract ($500,000 guaranteed) to vie for the primary backup role.

Howell will be competing directly with Joe Milton III, the former Patriots signal-caller who joined Dallas last year and remains a high-potential developmental piece in a now crowded quarterback room.

Cowboys’ legendary QBs

The Dallas Cowboys boast a storied lineage of legendary quarterbacks, headlined by Hall of Famers Roger Staubach and Troy Aikman, who combined for five Super Bowl championships (VI, XII, XXVII, XXVIII, XXX).

Staubach’s “Captain Comeback” icon in the 1970s and Aikman’s clinical precision during the 1990s dynasty set a gold standard for the franchise, a legacy later carried forward by prolific passers like Tony Romo and current leader Dak Prescott.

Historic NFL rivalry

The historical rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers is primarily defined by their unprecedented three Super Bowl matchups, where Pittsburgh holds a 2-1 advantage after victories in the 1970s and a Dallas win in 1996.

While the Steelers enjoyed a dominant run in the 2000s, the Cowboys faced a title drought during that era, yet the rivalry remained fierce due to their clashing identities.

• Super Bowl X, Steelers 21 – 17 Cowboys
• Super Bowl XIII, Steelers 35 – 31 Cowboys
• Super Bowl XXX, Cowboys 27 – 17 Steelers

Last season, Dak Prescott led an impressive unit alongside George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb. However, the defense was one of the worst in the NFL and a key reason to explain why Dallas couldn’t fight for the Super Bowl.

Jones addressed the team’s approach in an interview with AP, expressing satisfaction with the moves the Cowboys have made during the offseason. “I think we’re within the boundaries of what we have available, what we’re trying to accomplish with draft picks and with the salary cap. I wouldn’t try to revisit or try to redo what we’ve done on either that cap or the trades we’ve made. I like what we got.”

Who did the Cowboys sign in free agency?

One of the most notable decisions by Dallas was placing the nonexclusive franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens. The Cowboys also brought back running back Javonte Williams on a three-year deal, while making a major defensive addition by trading for edge rusher Rashan Gary. In the secondary, Jerry Jones strengthened the safety position by signing Jalen Thompson to a three-year contract.

The Cowboys also focused heavily on adding depth through a series of one-year deals. Dallas agreed to terms with defensive tackle Otito Ogbonnia, defensive end Sam Williams, cornerback Cobie Durant, safety P.J. Locke, quarterback Sam Howell, edge rusher Tyrus Wheat, offensive lineman Matt Hennessy and tight end Princeton Fant.

In addition to those signings, the Cowboys released quarterback Will Grier, while trading defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to the 49ers for a third-round pick and sending defensive tackle Solomon Thomas to the Titans in a seventh-round pick swap. The Cowboys also placed second-round tenders on kicker Brandon Aubrey and guard T.J. Bass.

The Cowboys showcased one of the best offenses in the sport last year, and Pickens earned Second-Team All-Pro honors. Much of that success came from the connection between Prescott and Pickens. In a recent article from the Cowboys staff, Prescott was seen offering advice to Pickens about staying motivated after receiving a major payday.

“George loves football,” Prescott said. “That’s the one thing about it. I just want him to know, don’t change your love for football. Don’t get in the business mind of this. You played last year on a one year deal for not even that much, right? So, if you can go $30 million or whatever it is now, I think it’s the same thing I got when I was franchised, hey, go do it.

“At the end of the day, bet on yourself. He’s a hell of a player. Hopefully, we can get him long term and sign that but, if not, I think the way he plays the game, the person that he is, he’ll be just fine.”

Cowboys make decision on Pickens

One of those decisions involved what they would do with George Pickens, and they officially chose to place the franchise tag on him, according to ESPN’s Todd Archer. “The Dallas Cowboys will place the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens today to secure his rights at least through 2026, according to sources. Fixed to adding today,” Archer wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

The Cowboys acquired Pickens in a trade last offseason, and the move proved to be a strong decision considering what they were able to do offensively. Dak Prescott had another reliable option in the passing game, and when CeeDee Lamb was injured, Pickens stepped up in his absence and delivered several important plays.

There is little doubt that Pickens deserves a long-term contract, but at this moment, it remains uncertain what the Cowboys ultimately plan to do. Placing the franchise tag on him shows that the Cowboys value him and want to retain him, but if he plays next NFL season under the tag and improves on his previous year, they may have to pay even more.

“I would bet that we will spend more money in free agency than we have. I want you to know that the only way to push more is for me to go borrow some of my future, ok? Expect me to go borrow some of my future.”

For a franchise that hasn’t reached the Super Bowl in decades, that type of aggressive approach could mark a turning point. Whether it results in marquee free-agent signings or bold roster moves, Jones has publicly committed to doing whatever it takes financially. Now, Cowboys fans will be watching closely to see if those promises translate into the kind of roster capable of finally ending the championship drought.

Jerry Jones and the 2026 NFL Draft

With an eye firmly on the future, Jerry Jones understands that the 2026 NFL Draft could become a defining moment for the Dallas Cowboys. Holding two first-round picks, the franchise has valuable draft capital to either select elite young talent or maneuver aggressively up the board. After losing Micah Parsons, the defense is in urgent need of impact players, particularly along the edge and across the defensive front.

Jones made it clear he would not shy away from making bold moves if it fits the team’s competitive timeline. “I don’t know that I’d expect it but we have the ammunition to be good at it. And I wouldn’t hesitate to be good at it if it will help our team and help the timeline that we’re talking about.”

Armed with premium assets and facing clear defensive needs, the Cowboys have the flexibility to make a major splash. Whether that means drafting a cornerstone pass rusher or leveraging those selections in a high-profile deal, the 2026 Draft has the potential to reshape the franchise’s trajectory.

That move guarantees that the Cowboys retain Pickens’ rights and that the star cannot test free agency in the coming weeks. In addition, they are automatically obligated to pay him close to $28 million for the upcoming season as one of the top five players at the position. By the way, under this tag, Pickens can listen to offers, but Dallas will have the opportunity to match them. If that does not happen, the Cowboys would receive two first-round picks as compensation if the player leaves.

However, the announcement will not sit well in Pickens’ camp. The player is expecting a multi-year deal with a lot of guaranteed money. After proving with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Dallas that he is one of the best wide receivers in the NFL, George will not want to earn less than names like Justin Jefferson, Ja’Marr Chase, or CeeDee Lamb.

Will George Pickens sign a contract extension with Cowboys?

For now, George Pickens is not close to signing a contract extension at all with the Cowboys and, after the franchise tag is officially in place, the wide receiver is most likely to skip all offseason activities with the team as a form of protest if he is not given a major contract.

How much money does George Pickens want from Cowboys?

George Pickens will likely begin negotiations using CeeDee Lamb as a benchmark. His teammate signed a four-year, $136 million contract in 2024. It will be very difficult for him to accept anything less than that.

Furthermore, in a very important detail, Pickens’ agent also has Micah Parsons as a top client. We cannot forget that David Mulugheta had an extremely complicated negotiation with Jerry Jones that ended with the defensive star being traded to the Packers. In the wide receiver’s case, he will not back down either.

Money benchmark for George Pickens

For all practical purposes, Pickens and Mulugheta will take into account that Justin Jefferson earns $35 million annually and that Ja’Marr Chase reset the market with $40 million per season. Based on that, and considering the massive salary cap problems the Cowboys are dealing with, it appears it will be another controversial and lengthy offseason for Jones with one of his stars.

If Jerry wants to keep one of the best offenses in the NFL intact with Dak Prescott, Lamb, and Pickens, he will have to find a way to give the former Steelers player a contract extension.

Since arriving in Dallas, Aubrey has developed into one of the NFL’s most reliable and productive kickers, providing consistency and long-range accuracy that have directly influenced game outcomes. As the Cowboys aim to maximize their Super Bowl window with Dak Prescott under center, maintaining stability in the kicking game has become more than a luxury. It’s a competitive necessity.

Now, according to a report from Todd Archer, negotiations between Dallas and Aubrey’s camp have revealed a significant gap in contract expectations. “The Dallas Cowboys and the agent for Pro Bowler Brandon Aubrey are in agreement that he should be the highest-paid kicker in the NFL. The disagreement is by how much.”

Who is the highest paid kicker in the NFL?

The highest-paid kicker in the NFL is Harrison Butker, who signed a four-year, $25.6 million contract with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2024, setting the benchmark at an average of $6.4 million per season. That figure has become the reference point in negotiations around the league, including the current talks between the Dallas Cowboys and Brandon Aubrey, whose camp is reportedly seeking a deal that creates clear separation above Butker’s number.

Jerry Jones has another problem with Brandon Aubrey

The Dallas Cowboys may have found stability at kicker, but a new challenge is emerging for owner Jerry Jones as the team navigates contract extension talks with Brandon Aubrey.

According to Todd Archer’s report, negotiations remain stalled despite mutual recognition of Aubrey’s value. “The Cowboys have offered a deal for Aubrey that is more than the league-high $6.4 million average per season for Kansas City’s Harrison Butker, sources told ESPN. However, Aubrey’s agent, Todd France, has asked for a deal closer to $10 million per season, according to sources. The negotiations started last season but have not progressed.”

Jerry Jones is once again navigating a high-profile contract dispute, a familiar position for the controversial owner in recent years. The Cowboys have worked through complex negotiations involving Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Micah Parsons. The first two were successful, but, in a shocking turn of events, Parsons was traded to the Packers.

The ongoing talks with Brandon Aubrey add another layer to that pattern, and the financial puzzle will only grow more complicated as the franchise also prepares for a new contract for wide receiver George Pickens in 2026.