NFL Makes Punishment Decision on George Pickens Incident

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Dec 13, 2025 4:25 PM ET

George Pickens and the Dallas Cowboys lost to the Detroit Lions 44-30 in Week 14. It snapped a three-game winning streak and dropped the Cowboys to 6-6-1.

Pickens was relatively quiet, hauling in just five receptions for 37 yards and zero touchdowns. That's despite having the second-most targets (nine) on the team.

In total, the teams combined for 15 accepted penalties. One came on second and 10 with 1:25 remaining in the second quarter, on a nine-yard pass from Dak Prescott to Pickens. However, the play was wiped out after Pickens was flagged for a face mask penalty.

Instead of Dallas having a chance to convert on third and 1, it backed them up 15 yards. The drive ended in a 55-yard field goal from Brandon Aubrey, cutting the Cowboys' deficit to 20-9.

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3).Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Not only did the penalty play a part in keeping the offense from reaching the end zone, but it meant another punishment could be handed out. According to the NFL's rules enforcement guidelines, a player can be fined $11,593 for a face mask violation.

The NFL announced its Week 14 gameday accountability report on Saturday, making an official ruling. Unfortunately for Pickens, he did receive an $11,593 fine. This will be the sixth time he's received a fine this season, with the total now set to reach $95,642.

Up next for the Cowboys is a Week 15 matchup against the 5-8 Minnesota Vikings on "Sunday Night Football." After a slow game against the Lions, Pickens may need to step up with tight end Jake Ferguson questionable with a calf injury.

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

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