Dak Prescott Shuts Down Media Bias Against New Cowboys WR George Pickens: 'He’s One of Us'

Pickens brought not only his skills as a receiver to Dallas, but his choppy reputation as a locker room nightmare also traveled with him from Pittsburgh. Steelers insider and writer Brian Batko spoke with general manager Omar Khan about the reasons behind trading Pickens to the Cowboys.

I wouldn’t use the word ‘disappointment.’ We had three years with George. We had some exciting times. The fresh start for both sides was the best thing.

Omar Khan said

Khan’s statement is self-explanatory. Pickens led the Steelers in yards after catch during his final two years (based on appearing in 14+ games). He was second (17.5 YAC) behind only the 49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk (17.8 YAC) in 2023.

Dak Prescott says George Pickens is part of the Cowboys family

Pickens was in for the long run, but the Steelers washed their hands of him during his contract year. Both the 24-year-old and the Steelers required a fresh start. Jerry Jones viewed this as a good opportunity to give Prescott a new weapon to work with.

[George has] been phenomenal. He’s a guy that loves football, loves his teammates. He’s been excited every day that he’s been here.

Prescott added

The report from the Cowboys’ OTAs is promising. Pickens started off his life in Arlington with number 13, but later switched to 3. All eyes were on CeeDee Lamb and how he would react to hosting another receiver, eyeing the WR1 spot. So far, both are gelling well, which is good news for Prescott and new head coach Brian Schottenheimer .

Schottenheimer revealed that the Georgia graduate shows up “with energy, with a smile, and ready to work” at training.

My time with him has been incredible… We were all on board (with adding him). I see a guy that is maturing. He’s obviously a tremendous athlete.

Brian Schottenheimer said

Prescott backed his coach.

[Pickens] is one of us. He’s a brother and it’s just about continuing to grow and make sure we’re putting the best out there. That’s his approach.

The Cowboys present Pickens with a fantastic opportunity to bag a hefty check, depending on how he performs in 2025. Prescott is undeniably the best passer he has had since entering the NFL, even though he played with Super Bowl winner Russell Wilson last season.

George Pickens appeared in 48 games for the Steelers in three years. He caught 174 passes for 2841 yards (16.3 YAC) and 12 touchdowns. The Steelers traded Pickens and a 2027 seventh-round pick in exchange for the Cowboys’ 2026 third-round pick and 2027 fifth-round pick.