Pittsburgh Steelers WR George Pickens celebrates after making a catch against the Washington Commanders. Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Former NFL MVP hypes George Pickens as Cowboys' missing edge

Originally posted on Dallas Cowboys on SI
By Randy Gurzi | Last updated May 16, 2025 11:15 AM ET

The Dallas Cowboys made one of the biggest splashes this offseason when they traded for wide receiver George Pickens.

Bringing in the former Pittsburgh Steelers star gives them two explosive wide receivers, but his addition doesn't come without concerns. Pickens has had his maturity questioned, and there were reports that many in the Pittsburgh organization weren't sad to see him go.

Despite these reports, Cam Newton doesn't think Dallas made a mistake. The 2015 NFL MVP was fired up on his 4th & 1 podcast while discussing Pickens' addition to the Dallas receiving corps. Not only did he say Dak Prescott will have Pickens and CeeDee Lamb at his disposal, but he added that Jerry Jones has built a winning team with players who have an "edge" in the past.

“He adds an edge the Cowboys have been missing. Jerry’s built winning teams with players like him before,” Newton said.

“He adds an edge the Cowboys have been missing. Jerry’s built winning teams with players like him before.” @CameronNewton on why George Pickens is the perfect fit for Dallas pic.twitter.com/DZISDQ0ymR
— 4th&1 with Cam Newton (@4thand1show) May 15, 2025

Newton also made an excellent point that Pickens isn't the typical "red-flag" player. He said teams that roll the dice on players with an edge often have to worry about what they do off the field.

Pickens, according to Newton, won't be a problem away from the game. He dismissed the concern as minor, saying Pickens might only grab a face mask or pour water on someone.

It's not ideal for Dallas to draw unsportsmanlike penalties, which is something that Pickens has done in the past. Still, they can live with it if it means their offense begins to play with more passion.

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

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