'Turns teammates off' - George Pickens' character concerns explained by Steelers expert following Dallas Cowboys trade for WR

Dallas Cowboys fans have met the news of acquiring George Pickens via trade mostly with excitement and celebration. But inevitably, there's also concern over his character issues.

In order to get a more accurate depiction of what the Pickens experience entails on and off the field, I reached out to A to Z Sports' Steelers expert Rob Gregson, who recently predicted the wide receiver wouldn't go for anything less than a third-round selection, which is what the Cowboys ended up giving up—along a Day 3 swap of picks—to land him.

I asked Gregson about the truths and myths about Pickens the player but also about whether or not the criticisms of his personality are exaggerated or not. Let's dive in. 

When I think of George Pickens, I think of him as a contested-pass monster. What else does he bring to the table as a wide receiver?

Gregson: Pickens is sneaky in his route running. He’s steadily improved since his rookie year, and you can see how much looser he’s gotten in a recent workout video (via @1.issue on IG). He’s also a vertical stretch player that if you only worry about on jump ball. . . He will run right past you.

2. Oftentimes, Pickens deals with questions about him evolving into a complete WR1 but what can Cowboys fans expect from him on a No. 2 role?

Gregson: He will thrive in the WR #2 role as long as his head is on straight. He’s an elite talent when he’s not being double and triple teamed, which he dealt with a lot in 2024, yet he still produced nearly 1,000 yards while missing 3 games.

3. After watching his time in Pittsburgh closely, how real are the character concerns? We've seen him get feisty on the field but is it an issue within the locker room?

Gregson: Unfortunately, as much as you love the player, the character is a problem. This isn’t a legal matter, rather one of maturity. Consistently being tardy to meetings and practices, lackluster effort in games and during the week, and an attitude and mentality that turns teammates off. Perhaps a trade will be a wake up call however, and Pickens turns into the player his potential suggests.

Gregson's reaffirms what many think about the Cowboys' trade for Pickens: It's a risk. Oh, yeah, it is. But his dynamic playmaking ability and unique talent for winning on contested catch situations make it worth it.

Additionally, as Gregson points out, the trade could be a wake up call. With a contract year ahead, the motivation couldn't be any higher for Pickens.