Due to their history and everything that surrounds the franchise, the Dallas Cowboys are always under heavy pressure from the media and, above all, their fans. That pressure is even greater now after a season in which they finished third in the NFC East and missed the playoffs.
Part of the reason was the mid-season injury to quarterback Dak Prescott, but the division also became significantly tougher with the Philadelphia Eagles – led by Saquon Barkley and now reigning NFL champions – and the Washington Commanders, who took a step forward with Jayden Daniels.
Next season, the Cowboys will face even more pressure, as both the Eagles and Commanders are clear favorites to continue fighting for the division title. However, Jerry Jones and the Dallas front office have worked to build a competitive roster.
Brian Schottenheimer Is Excited About George Pickens
There’s no doubt that one of the Cowboys’ biggest needs was to find a wide receiver to pair with one of the team’s stars – and they may have found a real gem, if he can stay focused: George Pickens.
The Dallas Cowboys made a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers to acquire Pickens, who has had some behavioral issues, but whose talent is undeniable. Even in Pittsburgh’s conservative offense last season, he managed to put up 900 receiving yards and three touchdowns.
New Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer has spoken highly of Pickens, who, if he pans out, could turn out to be a major steal for Dallas.
“My time with George Pickens has been just incredible. I think we were all on board with the trade. We’re always trying to find the right pieces and good pieces, and I think we’re really excited about what he brings as a football player,” Schottenheimer told The Athletic. “But I see a guy that’s maturing. I see a player we’re excited to put out there and watch him grow and get better.”
Pickens’ numbers have been solid, and the Cowboys will be looking for him to continue that trajectory. He recorded 174 receptions, 2,841 yards, and 12 touchdowns in three seasons with the Steelers, averaging 16.3 yards per catch. In 2024 alone, he posted 900 yards and 3 touchdowns in 14 games.
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