The Dallas Cowboys acquired wide receiver George Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers in a trade announced Wednesday. The move sends Pickens to Dallas to complement All-Pro receiver CeeDee Lamb.
In exchange for Pickens and a 2027 seventh-round draft pick, the Cowboys sent their 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to Pittsburgh. The trade marks the first between the two organizations in over 30 years.
Pickens joins a Dallas roster undergoing changes in the offseason under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer. He arrives following earlier trades for quarterback Joe Milton, linebacker Kenneth Murray, and cornerback Kaiir Elam, though Pickens' arrival is viewed as the most impactful acquisition.
The receiver is tasked with immediately stepping into a prominent role opposite Lamb, regarded as one of the NFL's top players at his position. Pickens, standing 6-foot-3 and weighing over 200 pounds, possesses above-average arm length, reliable hands, and capabilities tracking deep passes.
Pickens averaged 16.3 yards per reception over his three seasons with the Steelers, the highest average among qualified players during that span. His speed, measured in the mid-4.4-second range for the 40-yard dash, allows him to separate from defensive backs in addition to his ability to secure contested catches.
His pairing with Lamb is expected to provide quarterback Dak Prescott with a formidable duo in the passing game. The acquisition follows the Cowboys' selection of offensive guard Tyler Booker in the first round of the NFL Draft, providing added protection for Prescott to target receivers like Lamb and Pickens, along with Pro Bowl tight end Jake Ferguson.
The trade also creates competition for the third receiver spot, with players like Jalen Tolbert, Jalen Brooks, Jonathan Mingo, and KaVontae Turpin vying for the role. The team's roster now includes 13 receivers.
Pickens enters the final year of his rookie contract, accounting for approximately $3.6 million against the Cowboys' salary cap. As a former second-round pick, he is not eligible for a fifth-year option, setting up the 2025 season as an opportunity to demonstrate his value before becoming eligible for free agency.
Despite his talent showcased at the University of Georgia under Kirby Smart and during his time in Pittsburgh under Mike Tomlin, Pickens has faced questions regarding his maturity. Cowboys leadership, including Prescott, Lamb, and linebacker Micah Parsons, may provide guidance for Pickens as he integrates into the team culture.
Over three seasons with the Steelers, Pickens played in 48 games, totaling 2,841 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. His addition addresses the Cowboys' need for a productive receiver opposite Lamb, a move anticipated by some following a report that the teams were nearing an agreement.
