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Mailbag: Priority for Cowboys at combine?

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(Editor's Note: Time to check the mail! The DallasCowboys.com staff writers answer your questions here in 'Mailbag' presented by Miller Lite.)

What do you think is the most important thing the Cowboys need to accomplish during the NFL Scouting Combine? I know this is all part of the draft process, but I can't *help but wonder, should starting meaningful negotiations with George Pickens'* people while there be close to or even at the top of the priority list? – Henry Rogers/Oklahoma City, OK

Patrik: My answer doesn't even involve the NFL Draft prospects, to be honest. I think the No. 1 thing to accomplish is meeting with George Pickens' agent and getting a deal done. Doing so will avoid the $28 million franchise tag being stapled to the salary cap at the opening of free agency in mid-March, and allow the Cowboys to begin shopping for defense right at the outset. The secondary goal is to meet with as many potential defensive first-round picks as possible. With two picks inn the first round, there needs to be Plan A through Plan H for how to handle the litany of scenarios that could crop up before or while Dallas is on the clock. But, again, the most important mission is to get a deal done with Pickens.

Tommy: I'm with you that the conversations with George Pickens' representation are at the top of the list in my opinion. The Cowboys appear to be content with having Pickens play on the franchise tag, which he's expected to receive at some point before the March 3 deadline to ensure he doesn't hit free agency. That said, a long-term deal being struck at some point, whether it be during the combine or after, may benefit both sides. Pickens gets the long-term security of a deal, and the Cowboys may save some money on their cap in 2026. This week should tell us a lot about how that's going to play out. It's certainly not the only primary order of business for the coming week, as Brandon Aubrey's future and getting to sit down with NFL Draft prospects are also very important.

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