In a move aimed at boosting their offensive arsenal and keeping pace in a competitive NFC East, the Dallas Cowboys have acquired wide receiver George Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The trade package sent a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to Pittsburgh in exchange for Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round selection.
The Cowboys, chasing the reigning Super Bowl champion Eagles and a rising Washington Commanders squad, are betting big on the 24-year-old Pickens to add a spark to their passing attack and ease the burden on star wideout CeeDee Lamb.
Quarterback Dak Prescott, for one, is thrilled about the new addition.
Appearing on The Invasion on Dallas radio station 96.7 The Ticket, Prescott praised Pickens’ elite ability to win contested catches.
“We’ve connected. I’m excited,” Prescott said. “You turn on the tape, you see a guy that can catch the football. 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.”
The Cowboys’ need for a reliable second option behind Lamb was clear last season.
Lamb finished with 101 receptions for 1,194 yards and six touchdowns, but the supporting cast was thin. Jalen Tolbert stepped up with 610 receiving yards and a team-high seven scores, yet no other wideout managed more than 500 yards or three touchdowns.
Pickens brings a much-needed blend of physicality and explosiveness. Despite some ups and downs during his three seasons in Pittsburgh, he compiled 2,841 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns, often flashing Pro Bowl-caliber talent.
Cowboys executive vice president and COO Stephen Jones believes the ceiling is even higher for the former second-round pick.
“He’s just a dynamic receiver,” Jones said. “Everybody says we’re looking for a [number] two. I mean, George can be a one. He’s got that type of talent. He’s got an unbelievable ball-tracking ability.
“He’s got plenty of juice and he’s a fiery competitor. And we love that, he plays with an edge, and we think he’d be a good fit for our team.”
With Lamb commanding double teams and Pickens demanding attention on the opposite side, Prescott sees the makings of a dangerous duo.
As training camp nears, all eyes will be on Pickens to see if he can harness his talent and take full advantage of the fresh start in Dallas.
If he clicks with Prescott the way early signs suggest, the Cowboys’ offense could be in for a serious leap forward.
A curious observer will surely be the Pittsburgh Steelers … Do you think they will end up regretting their decision to trade Pickens???
