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Cowboys' 'Enigma' George Pickens Tipped For 'Major Step Forward'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Jun 8, 2025 1:00 PM ET

Dallas Cowboys receiver George Pickens has it all in front of him in 2025 and has the supporting cast to make the most of his opportunity.

Coming from the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pickens will be playing on the final year of his rookie deal, meaning in 12 months, he will be up for an extension.

How he plays will determine the ballpark teams, which might include Dallas, will offer in his new deal.

But as we mentioned, George has the best quarterback he's ever had, and a running mate that is one of the best at his position in CeeDee Lamb.

Due to that, NFL.com's Bucky Brooks thinks that Pickens can take a big step forward in 2025.

"The big-play specialist has terrorized opponents during stretches as a vertical playmaker with exceptional size, length and leaping ability," Brooks wrote. "Considering the number of 1-on-1 chances Pickens will receive in an offense that is committed to pushing the ball down the field with Dak Prescott at the helm, Dallas' newest pass catcher could take a major step forward in a contract season."

Pickens was the sole weapon for the Steelers during his time in the AFC North, but now, defenses won't be able to shift coverage to curtail his influence, because if they do, Lamb will be one-on-one, and that is nightmare fuel.

So, Pickens, as Brooks states, will see his fair share of advantageous matchups, and he has a quarterback who can take advantage of them.

It is no secret that much of the offensive burden will fall on Pickens and Lamb in the passing attack, and with defenses unable to effectively take either out of the game with double teams or coverage shifts, both will be ready to eat.

And in George's case, he might have walked into the best scenario to showcase his skills as he looks at getting a bumper new contract.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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