After failing to secure their top wide receiver prospect during the NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys made a bold move to strengthen their offense – acquiring George Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers in a headline-making trade.
Coming into Draft Week, the Cowboys had their sights set on Arizona standout Tetairoa McMillan. But when McMillan went off the board before Dallas could grab him, the team was left empty-handed at wide receiver by the end of the weekend.
Still, the need for a legitimate second option alongside CeeDee Lamb remained. And with quarterback Dak Prescott entering a crucial phase of his career, Dallas knew it had to act.
Now, they have…
According to reports, Pickens had been on the Cowboys’ radar for weeks.
Though acquiring McMillan might have altered that plan, missing out on the rookie helped accelerate trade talks with Pittsburgh.
The deal not only reshapes the Cowboys’ offense but also puts to rest persistent – and controversial – rumors about a potential reunion with Amari Cooper.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, while defending the current receiver group during the draft, had hinted that the team wasn’t finished seeking upgrades.
“It definitely was a big-time thought, but the train has not left the station if improvement is needed from what we’ve got on campus,” Jones said.
“I’m looking at the same sheet maybe you got in front of you that I have in front of me and it shows our No. 114 pick trade to Carolina for Jonathan Mingo. Well, we’ve obviously known that.”
Those comments drew skepticism from ProFootballTalk.com, which suggested Jones was being less than truthful about the team’s intentions. But with the Pickens deal now complete, critics may have to reconsider.
With Prescott’s prime years winding down, the Cowboys have limited time to maximize their franchise quarterback’s window.
Acquiring Pickens represents a clear bet on getting him the help he needs.
However, as talented as he is, Pickens comes to Dallas with a bit of baggage due to his controversial behavior both on and off the field.
While Prescott isn’t always the most popular man in Dallas, some Cowboys fans are worried that adding Pickens could be a dangerous mix – especially if and when adversity hits.
What are your thoughts on Dallas trading for Pickens? … Do you think he could bring out the best in Dak? Or will he end up being a headache for the team???
