NFL drops hammer on Cowboys’ George Pickens before Broncos game

The Dallas Cowboys struck gold when they acquired George Pickens, turning him into a home-run addition that has electrified their offense.

The star wide receiver stepped up admirably and filled in for All-Pro CeeDee Lamb while he was out with an ankle injury, and when both are healthy, Lamb and Pickens are arguably the best 1-2 WR punch in the NFL.

Pickens has wasted no time asserting himself in Dallas. He leads the Cowboys in receiving yards (607) and touchdowns (six), and he ranks second on the team to tight end Jake Ferguson in targets (58 to 54) and receptions (51 to 36). His big-play ability has provided quarterback Dak Prescott with a reliable deep threat, stretching defenses and creating opportunities for the entire unit.

Yet, while there’s no question Pickens is one of the league’s top playmaking receivers, he also comes with some baggage. His talent is undeniable, but so is his reputation for occasional drama.

Pickens has been known to be a headache at times, and his work ethic was questioned on more than one occasion during his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Those concerns have followed him to Dallas, where his on-field celebrations and interactions continue to draw scrutiny.

The latest example came in the Cowboys’ dominant 44-22 victory over the Washington Commanders. Pickens’ antics were on full display, and the NFL has punished him accordingly.

NFL fines George Pickens

The league released its list of weekly fines from the previous week’s games, and Pickens was hit with an $11,593 fine for taunting just one day before the team’s Week 8 matchup against the Denver Broncos. It’s the second time he’s been fined this season. The other instance came back in Week 2.

That earlier penalty involved a joint celebration with Lamb. Both Pickens and Lamb were fined $14,491 for unsportsmanlike conduct (violent gesture) for their touchdown celebration in the final minute of the fourth quarter when they made finger-gun gestures toward each other. What was meant as playful camaraderie crossed the line in the eyes of league officials.

Pickens wasn’t the only Cowboy feeling the financial sting last week. Three other players joined him on the fines list:

• Running back Javonte Williams was fined $16,830 for unnecessary roughness (use of the helmet).
• Center Brock Hoffman was fined $6,111 for taunting.
• Safety Donovan Wilson was fined $23,186 for unnecessary roughness (use of the helmet).

As the Cowboys prepare for their showdown with the Broncos, the focus remains on harnessing Pickens’ elite skills without letting the distractions derail their momentum. His production speaks for itself, but managing the full package will be key to Dallas maximizing its superstar duo at wide receiver.