Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images

Cowboys Trade For Lamar Jackson's Top Weapon Explored?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated May 10, 2025 10:53 AM ET

The Dallas Cowboys' need for a receiver was well-documented, and that led the franchise to eventually trade for Pittsburgh Steelers star George Pickens.

But as it turns out, the Cowboys had their eye on a fellow AFC North receiver as well.

According to Fox Sports Insider Jordan Schultz, the Cowboys kicked the tires on potentially trying to sign Baltimore Ravens receiver Rashod Bateman.

When that fell through, it led Dallas to Pickens.

"During their pursuit of a receiver, the #Cowboys also looked into a trade for #Ravens WR Rashod Bateman," Schultz posted on X. "Those talks didn’t go far, and Dallas ultimately struck a post-draft deal with the #Steelers for George Pickens.

"Dallas’ search for another receiver was a months-long process."

We think Dallas made the right choice.

Bateman hasn't surpassed 800 receiving yards in his four NFL seasons, with his best return coming last season (756), but he did have nine touchdowns, which is a great return.

As for Pickens, in his three seasons, he's totaled 801, 1,140 and 900 yards along with a combined 12 touchdowns.

So both have their strengths, but Pickens as a talent, is seen as superior to Bateman and we aren't sure if Rashod would be able to dictate coverage in the way that Pickens can.

George could be seen as a needle-mover for the offense if he works out in Dallas.

Could Bateman be seen as that? We have our doubts.

But the silver lining here is that Dallas, while many thought it wasn't too interested in acquiring a receiver due to the lack of movement, kicked the tires for months before landing on Pickens.

And we think the Cowboys landed on the right receiver, too.

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

More must-reads: