George Pickens is an exceptional wide receiver with a rumored attitude problem. That’s primarily the reason most teams backed off when the Pittsburgh Steelers made Pickens available for a trade. The Dallas Cowboys, on the other hand, saw it as a great opportunity.
Owner Jerry Jones did not waste much time and traded for Pickens. Even though many view the former second-round pick as a ticking time bomb, the new head coach, Brian Schottenheimer , is excited to have an athlete of Picken’s stature.
I’m thrilled with the way the guys have responded to him.
Brian Schottenheimer said during a recent press conference (H/T: Sports Illustrated)
It is a gamble from Jones. Adding Pickens to a team that is coming off a 7-10 season and a rookie head coach might end up a complete disaster. However, earlier signs point to Pickens’ transition into the Cowboys roster going smoothly.
I love watching him in meetings, because in meetings he’s been so dialed in, taking great notes… His intentionality in the meeting room has been really cool for me to see.
Schottenheimer added
A partnership between CeeDee Lamb and Pickens would be a treat for the Cowboys fans and the neutrals.
George Pickens wasn’t surprised by his trade
One of the priorities, apart from signing a quarterback for the Steelers in the offseason, was adding another receiver to cover for Pickens. Mike Tomlin and Omar Khan signed star Pro Bowl wideout DK Metcalf from Seattle.
Instantly, Steelers fans loved their offense once again. However, the joy was short-lived. Khan traded Pickens, which created a lot of noise on social media.
The move confused a lot of people. Despite his attitude problems, the Steelers could have used Pickens’ services. He only had one year left on his rookie contract, and the Steelers could have let him play it out and then release him in the 2026 offseason. They took the initiative and pulled the trigger a year early.
The 24-year-old didn’t appreciate the decision and called the AFC North organization out. When reporters asked Pickens to reveal his view on the trade, he said it was a business decision.
Even kind of like what you [media] guys do is business, so I wasn’t really too shocked or too excited. I was just ready to work.
George Pickens said
Pickens could prove to be a valuable asset for the Cowboys if they can keep him in check. Quarterback Dak Prescott spoke with his new receiver and is looking forward to connecting with him during NFL games.
You put the football anywhere in his vicinity, very strong hands. More than a 50/50 catcher. He thinks it’s his ball when it’s in the air. I’m excited for him. I know we needed some help at that position… It’s hard to double-team two guys… I think we’re putting together a nice group of weapons.
Dak Prescott said
Pickens led the Steelers’ receivers in the 2024-25 season despite missing three games. He recorded 59 catches for 900 yards (15.3 yards per catch) and three touchdowns.
It will be interesting to see how Jones handles the monetary situation. Pickens will be eligible for a big extension next year. If he meets Jones’ expectations, then the veteran might consider keeping him long term. There’s always the option of releasing him if it doesn’t work out.
