The Dallas Cowboys’ trade for wide receiver George Pickens has been labeled one of the riskiest moves of the 2025 NFL offseason. While the acquisition aims to address the team’s long-standing need for a reliable second option alongside CeeDee Lamb, concerns about Pickens’ consistency and professionalism highlight the gamble Dallas has taken.
Pickens, a former Pittsburgh Steeler, boasts immense talent and the physical tools to complement Lamb effectively. His ability to make contested catches and create big plays offers Dallas a potential game-changer on offense. However, his history of on-field penalties, disciplinary issues, and inconsistent performance raises questions about whether he can thrive under pressure in Dallas.
Dallas Cowboys, George Pickens
Jan 11, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) makes a catch against the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth quarter in an AFC wild card game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images
Dallas acquired Pickens for a relatively modest price—sending a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to Pittsburgh while receiving a 2027 sixth-round pick in return. Financially, he remains affordable in the final year of his rookie contract, but his looming free agency in 2026 presents a challenge. If Pickens excels this season, Dallas risks losing him to a lucrative deal with another team.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer faces the task of managing Pickens’ temperament and integrating him into the team’s offensive system quickly. The team is coming off a disappointing 7-10 season, and pressure to deliver immediate results adds urgency to the move. While Pickens’ upside is undeniable, his potential to disrupt team chemistry cannot be ignored.
NFL Analysis Says Dallas Cowboys’ George Pickens Trade Was a Risky Offseason Move
Dallas Cowboys, George Pickens
Dec 25, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) reacts after a first down against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Dallas’ decision to trade for Pickens was a risky move done during the offseason. This is detailed more in an analysis by Kristopher Knox for Bleacher Report.
If a seasoned head coach like Tomlin can’t corral Pickens, the receiver could become a real problem for Schottenheimer.
Even if Pickens shows maturity in Dallas, complements Lamb perfectly and returns to being a 1,000-yard receiver, he’s bringing a risk factor. That’s because the Cowboys traded for Pickens as he was entering a contract year.
If Pickens flops, the Cowboys offense may disappoint. If he truly shines, he could price himself out in 2026 free agency—if and when Dallas extends Parsons, it will have three players earning at least $34 million annually.
This trade reflects Dallas’ ongoing pattern of high-risk, high-reward decisions in roster building. The Cowboys are betting on Pickens to elevate their offensive production, but the stakes are high. If he falters, the move could backfire and further hinder the team’s playoff aspirations.
Dallas Cowboys, George Pickens
Nov 21, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) reacts during the second quarter against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images
Ultimately, the success of this trade depends on Pickens’ ability to mature and perform at a high level. For Dallas, the gamble underscores their commitment to taking bold steps in pursuit of a return to NFL relevance.
Dallas Cowboys, George Pickens
Dec 3, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) reacts as he takes the field against the Arizona Cardinals at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
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