The Dallas Cowboys are riding high after mounting a franchise-record comeback to upset the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles. George Pickens delivered another spectacular performance but missed some snaps with injuries late in the contest. Will fantasy football managers have their breakout star available for Thursday’s Thanksgiving clash?
George Pickens Injury Update
The injury concerns emerged during the fourth quarter of Sunday’s thrilling victory over the Eagles. Pickens appeared to bang his knee after making a reception and immediately hobbled to the sideline. He missed the remainder of that drive as trainers evaluated him.​
Shortly afterward, the broadcast revealed he was dealing with a cramp in his calf that kept him sidelined. The dual ailments raised concerns given the importance of Thursday’s matchup against Kansas City.​ Despite the issues, Pickens returned and finished the game.
Monday’s practice report listed the stud receiver as a DNP with both knee and calf designations. It’s worth noting this comes the day after a game and represents an estimated report rather than actual practice participation.​
It’s too soon to panic given the circumstances. However, the situation isn’t ideal considering the compressed preparation schedule.
The calf injury appears less concerning since it was merely cramping. The knee presents a bigger question mark as the exact nature of what occurred remains unclear.​
Perhaps Pickens simply banged it during the play and Monday’s absence represents standard maintenance. Hopefully, he returns to limited participation Tuesday, which would put him firmly on track to play Thursday. Since the Cowboys didn’t hold an actual practice Monday due to the short week, making it difficult to gauge his true status.​
Fortunately, head coach Brian Schottenheimer indicated Pickens is more sore than injured. The expectation is that he will be ready for Thursday.
Pickens’ Fantasy Outlook
Pickens has been absolutely sensational this season since joining Dallas. He’s recorded 290 receiving yards over his last two games, posting nearly identical stat lines that showcase his dominance.
In Week 11, he caught nine passes for 144 yards and a touchdown against Las Vegas on Monday Night Football. In Week 12, Pickens delivered nine catches for 146 yards and another score in the comeback victory over Philadelphia.​
The new Cowboys star has now compiled 1,054 receiving yards, eight touchdowns, and 67 catches through 11 games. His 15.7 yards per reception ranks fifth among all receivers. Most remarkably, Pickens has outproduced Cowboys legend CeeDee Lamb lately, establishing himself as quarterback Dak Prescott’s top target.​
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“He’s not from this planet,” Prescott said after Sunday’s win, perfectly capturing Pickens’ otherworldly recent performances. The chemistry between the two has been instant and explosive, transforming Dallas’ offense.​
Dallas needs to string together wins if they want any realistic chance at making the playoffs. They certainly need Pickens if they’re going to topple the defending champion Chiefs on Thursday. Kansas City enters as 3.5-point favorites, but Dallas has momentum after erasing a 21-0 deficit against Philadelphia.​
The matchup presents an excellent opportunity for Pickens to continue his remarkable run. Tentatively expect Pickens to suit up barring any setbacks Tuesday or Wednesday. His connection with Prescott has become Dallas’ most dangerous weapon, making him a must-start in fantasy lineups even if he carries a questionable tag.​
