The Dallas Cowboys sent a third-round pick in 2026 and a fifth-round pick in 2027 to the Pittsburgh Steelers last May for wide receiver George Pickens. Immediately after the deal went down, there were plenty of eyebrows raised.
That’s because during his time with the Steelers, the word was that Pickens had some baggage attached to him. Specifically, he got the “diva” label placed on him, which made a lot of people nervous about the addition. With that said, Pickens ended up having a big year with the Cowboys
in 2025 as he set career highs in receptions (93), yards (1,429), and touchdowns (9).
Then came the offseason, and the talks about a long-term deal for Pickens in Dallas came about. The hope for many was that it would get done, but executive vice president Stephen Jones shot that down and said that Pickens would play on the franchise tag for a fully guaranteed $27.3 million this season.
Despite his reputation in the past, Pickens hasn’t caused any waves since coming to the Cowboys. He spoke recently about why things have worked out up until this point in Dallas, and the people in place around him play a key factor.
I’d say the type of coaches and the people around. When it’s a different vibe and environment, then that’s mostly what you’re seeing out of me now. They’re more lighthearted people, ask questions first and see your answer before going with their own narrative.
One person that certainly deserves a pat on the back is wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. He and Pickens had a bond before the trade was made due to training together in the offseason when he was still with the Steelers. Since Pickens has gotten to Dallas, he and Lamb have been almost inseparable, which undoubtedly helps him feel secure.
Another big factor is head coach Brian Schottenheimer. He has continuously supported Pickens and vouched for his love of the game. Although he signed the franchise tag, there was concern that Pickens wouldn’t be at mandatory minicamp in June. However, Schottenheimer kept saying he expected Pickens to be there, and Pickens was there.
He is currently having a strong camp as he looks to show once again why he deserves a lucrative contract with the Cowboys. Yes, Pickens has had a few slip ups when it comes to being late to meetings and stuff like that, but there’s been nothing of any major significance since he got to Dallas, and it’s because he’s learned from some of his errors.
Definitely. The older you get, you definitely get mature.
Pickens has said that he’s focused on winning a Super Bowl more than anything and that all the financial stuff will work itself out. As for now, the good thing is that Pickens is comfortable, which allows him to be the dominant player that he’s capable of being.
