George Pickens’ move to Dallas came with noise, skepticism and plenty of side-eye. The Cowboys paid a third-round pick in 2026 and a fifth-round pick in 2027 to pry him away from the Pittsburgh Steelers last May, and the reaction was immediate because of the baggage that had followed him out of Pittsburgh.
Back then, Pickens had already picked up the “diva” label, and that was enough to make a lot of people uneasy about how the fit would go. Instead, the Cowboys got the version they were hoping for in 2025: a productive receiver who delivered career highs with 93 catches, 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns.
The bigger surprise has been what hasn’t happened since. Pickens hasn’t created waves in Dallas, and he recently pointed to the people around him as the main reason the transition has gone so smoothly.
“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.”
That comfort level has shown up in a few different places. CeeDee Lamb has been one of the biggest reasons. The two were already connected before the trade because they trained together in the offseason when Pickens was still with the Steelers, and since Pickens arrived in Dallas, the pair have been almost inseparable.
Brian Schottenheimer has also played a major role. The Cowboys head coach has consistently backed Pickens and spoken up for his love of the game.
Even when there was concern that Pickens might skip mandatory minicamp in June after signing the franchise tag, Schottenheimer kept saying he expected him there. Pickens showed up.
For now, Pickens is having a strong camp as he tries to prove again that he’s worth a major contract in Dallas. He has had a few slip ups, including being late to meetings and similar issues, but there’s been nothing major since he joined the Cowboys, and Pickens has said he’s learned from some of those mistakes.
He has also made clear where his focus is. Pickens has said he cares more about winning a Super Bowl than the money, and believes the financial side will sort itself out. Right now, the key is that he feels settled - and that comfort is helping him play like the dominant receiver he believes he can be.
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