Does Cowboys' Brian Schottenheimer have lingering concerns about George Pickens' effort?

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens appeared to be going half-speed on many plays in a Week 14 loss to the Detroit Lions. 

Some called out Pickens, including "Thursday Night Football" analyst Richard Sherman, for his lack of effort in the 44-30 loss. The WR then clapped back at the former Seattle Seahawks cornerback in an expletive-filled Instagram post. 

On Monday, Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer said he and Pickens chatted after the loss to the Lions about his play and the reply to Sherman. He didn't provide details, but their conversation hasn't left him with any concerns. 

What did George Pickens say to Brian Schottenheimer? 

"We talked a little bit about it," the coach told the media. "In his words, he goes, 'Hey Schotty, I didn't play my best game.' Unfortunately, none of us played our best game. That's real. But I don't worry about George and his love for football and playing the game."

Pickens — who finished with 37 receiving yards against Detroit, his second-lowest mark this season — hasn't been too problematic for the Cowboys, but his reputation precedes him. In three seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, he frequently arrived late to team meetings, raising questions about his dedication. In turn, the AFC North squad traded him to Dallas in May.

To his credit, Pickens has seemed determined to improve his image throughout the 2025 season. His stellar play has certainly helped. 

After 14 weeks, the 2022 second-round pick ranks seventh in the league in receptions (78) and third in receiving yards (1,179). He's also tied for fifth in touchdown catches (eight). 

The Cowboys will need Pickens to rebound in a Week 15 home game against the Minnesota Vikings on NBC's "Sunday Night Football." To make the playoffs, Dallas (6-6-1) likely needs to win out. 

Plus, he should be targeted more against Minnesota if WR CeeDee Lamb (concussion) doesn't play. Schottenheimer said Lamb's "progressing nicely," but his status remains uncertain. 

Pickens will continue to play an important role for the Cowboys amid their late playoff push. The WR backsliding could cost Dallas, but at least Schottenheimer seems confident that won't happen.