Cowboys Embrace George Pickens as a Game-Changer on the Field

The Dallas Cowboys are optimistic about George Pickens' ability to challenge opposing defenses, while simultaneously believing that his character will foster a positive atmosphere within their locker room.

This perspective may come as a surprise, considering Pickens' tumultuous tenure as a wide receiver with the Pittsburgh Steelers, which culminated in a trade to Dallas in May.

"I've seen what y'all seen on film, like, trust me," said wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. "I know what it looks like. But if you talk to this man and have a decent conversation, I guarantee you'll understand that this man is kindhearted."

At just 24 years old, Pickens has garnered attention for several on-field incidents that have contributed to a controversial reputation. Notably, he received two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties during a Week 13 victory against Cincinnati last season, following an altercation with Cleveland Browns cornerback Greg Newsome the week prior.

These incidents, along with sideline confrontations involving teammates and coaches, prompted Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin to publicly address Pickens' behavior multiple times. He famously remarked, "He's just got to grow up, man," after Pickens avoided ejection despite receiving two flags against the Bengals in December.

However, Dallas players assert that Pickens' public persona stems from his intense desire to win. "He loves football, so that's something that you cannot question about him," wide receiver Jalen Tolbert stated. "That speaks and jumps off the tape, obviously, and jumps off the field, and obviously in the meeting room, he can do the same thing."

The Cowboys are actively working with Pickens to help him manage his frustrations, but Lamb emphasized the distinction between Pickens on and off the field. "When we get on the field, it's a different beast," Lamb explained. "I expect him to be an animal. But, like, we have an on and off button. Everybody on this field does. On any field, honestly. It's just, man, when you're passionate about something, you don't really care what the narrative is around you."

Lamb and Pickens have quickly developed a rapport, often exchanging insights and even dance moves during practice. They collaborated on an elaborate handshake to celebrate touchdowns, which Lamb noted took two days to perfect.

"He's a great receiver, he's a great person," Lamb remarked. "He's everything that the people say he isn't, and I feel like he doesn't get enough credit for being who he is. But you never know the situation that people are going through, so just being so quick to put a narrative on something that you don't really fully understand yet, I feel like it's kind of jumping the gun. But as for GP, man, he's a hard worker. He wants to be great. He's wanting to learn, and I love that the most about him because I'm the same way."

Despite showcasing star potential with impressive statistics during his time in Pittsburgh—accumulating 2,841 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns despite inconsistent quarterback play—Pickens was eager for a fresh start. Upon arriving in Dallas and meeting with Cowboys owner Jerry Jones post-trade, he felt optimistic about redefining his career.

"I think I needed a fresh start just in terms of, like you said, people not knowing me," Pickens shared.

The next challenge lies in establishing chemistry with quarterback Dak Prescott. Their timing has occasionally faltered during training camp; for instance, Pickens missed an over-the-shoulder catch that hit his hands on a deep sideline route last Saturday.

Once these issues are resolved, Pickens anticipates forming one of the most formidable receiver duos in the NFL alongside Lamb. "A lot of people over the years got different types of styles of play, but CeeDee's a certain type of guy and then I'm a certain type of guy, so when you mesh that together it's like 'Mario Bros,' you see what I mean? So we can definitely do something special," Lamb expressed.

During Saturday's practice session, cornerback Kaiir Elam provided a memorable highlight by intercepting Prescott and celebrating by lifting a fan's infant over his head in a gesture reminiscent of Disney's "The Lion King."

"I'm just trying to give the people a show," Elam stated. "I seen one of the guys who was like, 'I don't know about this kid picking up my kid.' But the kid was excited; that's all that matters."