Pittsburgh Steelers WR George Pickens runs after a catch past Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Joshua Williams. Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Cowboys' George Pickens' aggressive mindset fueled by supreme self-confidence

Originally posted on Dallas Cowboys on SI
By Randy Gurzi | Last updated May 14, 2025 8:04 AM ET

The Dallas Cowboys added a premier talent to their receiving corps recently, trading for George Pickens.

While the former Pittsburgh Steelers wideout has all the tools to be special, he’s also been questioned for his aggressive style of play. That aggression has led to some huge plays from Pickens, but he’s also received his share of penalties as well.

That doesn’t mean Pickens is just aggressive for the sake of it. He’s actually a cerebral player who has a method to his madness.

NFL analyst Kevin Clark pulled the curtain back on Pickens’ mindset, saying he plays the game with some anger. Pickens believes he’s the best player in the world, and gets frustrated that the ball doesn’t come his way on every play. Rather than throw a fit and demand the ball, Pickens draws attention to himself by bullying defenders.

NFL analyst @bykevinclark shares a story about why #Cowboys WR George Pickens sometimes plays with heightened aggression on the field—especially when blocking.

(: @ This Is Football on YT) pic.twitter.com/FdvbipYbDU
— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) May 14, 2025

As Clark says, Pickens “likes to take his anger on not getting the ball out on other people.” He also referenced an interview in 2023 when Pickens explained his approach to blocking defensive backs, taking advantage of the vulnerable position they’re in.

As Clark says, Pickens isn’t the only player who believes he’s the best. It’s not an uncommon belief, and anyone who makes the NFL has to have unwavering faith in themselves — yes, even the ones who come across as extremely humble.

Pickens just deals with it in his own way. Honestly, that might not be a bad thing for the Dallas offense.

This article first appeared on Dallas Cowboys on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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