George Pickens’ move from Pittsburgh to Dallas continues to generate buzz around the NFL. While much of the focus has been on how he’ll fit in alongside CeeDee Lamb, a growing chorus of analysts is drawing attention to what his shift means on a deeper level.
That shift in scenery has some NFL voices predicting a breakout year, with one analyst pointing to a key change that could unlock Pickens’ full potential.
Why George Pickens Could Thrive in the Cowboys’ Offense
NFL analyst John Daigle is bullish on Pickens’ future and shared his outlook on the “Ross Tucker Podcast”.
“George Pickens is finally going to get easier coverage for the first time in his career with the most accurate targets he’s ever received,” Daigle said. “So I love the upside of changing the spectrum for George Pickens. Kind of like how we did for Darnell Mooney last year, going from Justin Fields to Kirk Cousins, and it paid off significantly,” he added.
Daigle pointed out that Pickens’ production in Pittsburgh may have been capped by subpar quarterback play and a stagnant offense.
“George Pickens is finally going to get easier coverage for the first time in his career with the most accurate targets he’s ever received in his entire career.” @notJDaigle thinks the new Cowboys wideout will have a big season: pic.twitter.com/RR02FzFHIj
— Ross Tucker Podcast (@RossTuckerPod) June 20, 2025
Now, with a more accurate passer in Dak Prescott and less defensive focus thanks to Lamb drawing top coverage, Pickens could thrive in one-on-one matchups. Dallas acquired Pickens in a trade with the Steelers this offseason, sending a 2026 third-round pick and 2027 fifth-rounder in exchange for the wideout and a late-round pick.
The move has been widely praised, with league insiders calling it a great fit for both parties. An NFC coach told ESPN the move “opens things up” for the Cowboys’ offense, while an AFC executive added, “When he’s covered, he’s really open,” in reference to Pickens’ contested catch ability.
Meanwhile, Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott has already taken notice.
“It’s a guy that loves football, loves his teammates, and he’s been excited every day that he’s been there. He’s been early, too,” Prescott said, highlighting the wide receiver’s effort during offseason work.
Pickens Looking To Reboot NFL Career in Dallas
Pickens totaled 2,841 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns in three seasons with Pittsburgh, flashing elite potential but also battling inconsistency.
With a fresh start in Dallas, he’ll line up alongside Lamb, Jake Ferguson, and new backfield additions Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders.
The highest-graded WR on go routes in 2024:
George Pickens – 95.6 🚀 pic.twitter.com/7bF4Oz0obe
— PFF (@PFF) June 20, 2025
The Cowboys are entering 2025 under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer and looking to erase the sting of another playoff exit. If Pickens delivers on his promise, the trade could go down as one of the offseason’s most impactful moves.