Cameron notes that the Cowboys’ current cap space, about $29,168,257 per OverTheCap, could make a long-term deal unrealistic. He cites NFL insider Ian Rapoport’s reports suggesting Pickens could be a candidate for the franchise tag followed by a trade.
The Jets emerge as a strong suitor due to their combination of cap space and draft capital, with $83,263,050 in available space and nine total draft picks in Rounds 1-3 over the next two drafts. Cameron emphasizes that not many teams can offer both the necessary cap room and draft assets.
For New York, adding Pickens would address a key need in the wide receiver room alongside Garrett Wilson. Wilson, who played only seven games in 2025 due to injury, still led the Jets with 395 receiving yards, underscoring the urgency for a reliable target opposite him.
Pickens enjoyed a breakout 2025 campaign, posting 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 15.4 yards per catch, according to ESPN. With his free-agent value rising, a long-term deal in Dallas could be unlikely, potentially fueling a franchise-tag-and-trade path.
If Dallas proceeds with a franchise tag to facilitate a trade, the Jets are among the best-positioned teams to land Pickens thanks to their ample cap space and draft capital—one of the few combinations that match both requirements.
A move to New York would instantly create one of the NFL’s more dangerous wide receiver duos, pairing Pickens with Wilson. This scenario remains a notable offseason storyline to watch, as outlined in Heavy Sports’ coverage that originally reported Cameron’s analysis.
