In a significant move that could reshape their receiving corps, the Dallas Cowboys have swung a deal to acquire wide receiver George Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers. This trade, announced on Wednesday, sees Pickens heading to Dallas in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick, while the Cowboys also send a 2027 fifth-round pick to the Steelers, receiving a sixth-round pick in return.
This acquisition comes on the heels of Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones hinting at the team’s proactive approach to improving the roster, specifically targeting a reliable No. 2 receiver to complement Pro Bowler CeeDee Lamb. Just a few weeks earlier, the Cowboys had their sights set on wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who was picked by the Carolina Panthers at No. 8 overall, making him unavailable when Dallas picked at No. 12. Ultimately, the Cowboys opted not to draft a wide receiver despite the clear need, and with this trade, they seem to be addressing that gap directly.
Pickens, who has been with the Steelers since being selected in the second round of the 2022 draft, is entering the final year of his rookie contract after a solid stint in Pittsburgh. While general manager Omar Khan expressed intentions to reach a deal with the young star earlier this year, the team has now decided to move on. The shift in Pickens’ role became evident with the Steelers’ acquisition of star receiver DK Metcalf in March, further clouding his future in Pittsburgh.
With Dak Prescott set to return from injury this season after missing the final nine games of the previous campaign, the Cowboys are looking to position themselves as contending challengers. The pairing of Lamb and Pickens could potentially revitalize their aerial attack, reminiscent of the dynamic duo of Lamb and Amari Cooper from 2020-21.
Dallas has been vocal about its desire to reinforce the receiver position throughout the offseason, exploring various trade options before landing on Pickens. In his tenure with the Steelers, Pickens showcased his potential, tallying 59 catches for 900 yards and three touchdowns last season alone. It’s worth noting that he maintained similar production levels over his first three seasons, hitting over 50 receptions and 800 yards each year.
However, not everything has gone smoothly for Pickens. Last season, he faced some challenges on the field, including missing three games due to a hamstring strain and involving himself in a couple of skirmishes, drawing attention for unsportsmanlike conduct. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged these challenges, urging the young receiver to mature quickly as he navigates the pressures of the game.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys also reflect on previous acquisitions, including Jonathan Mingo last season, who did not find his stride with Prescott and caught just five passes. Jalen Tolbert, a third-round pick in 2022, had a career-high year last season, leading the team in touchdowns with seven, signaling a developing depth in the receiving room.
Now, with both Lamb and Pickens in the fold, the Cowboys appear poised to elevate their passing game. Lamb’s impressive season—recording 101 receptions for 1,194 yards and six touchdowns—was unfortunately cut short due to a shoulder injury. However, the synergy between him and Pickens could offer a formidable threat to opposing defenses, as Dallas eyes playoff contention and beyond.
As the football landscape shifts, this trade could be one of those pivotal moments that not only alters team dynamics but also sets the stage for a renewed chapter in Dallas’ pursuit of success.
