George Pickens is a professional American football wide receiver who currently plays for the Dallas Cowboys in the National Football League (NFL). Born on March 4, 2001, in Hoover, Alabama, he stands 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighs 200 pounds. Pickens played college football at the University of Georgia, where he was part of the team that won the College Football Playoff National Championship in 2021. He was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second round (52nd overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft.
NFL Career and Statistics
During his three seasons with the Steelers (2022–2024), Pickens appeared in 48 regular-season games, starting 40 of them. He recorded 174 receptions for 2,841 yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging 16.3 yards per catch. In the 2024 season, he played 14 games, making 59 receptions for 900 yards and three touchdowns.
Trade to the Dallas Cowboys
On May 7, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers traded Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys. In exchange, the Cowboys sent a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to Pittsburgh, while also receiving a 2027 sixth-round pick along with Pickens. The trade was influenced by the Steelers’ acquisition of wide receiver DK Metcalf in March 2025 and concerns over Pickens’ on-field discipline and emotional outbursts.
Role with the Cowboys
Pickens is expected to fill the “X” receiver role for the Cowboys, providing a deep-threat option opposite Pro Bowl wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. His ability to win against man coverage and stretch the field is anticipated to enhance Dallas’s offensive capabilities under head coach Brian Schottenheimer. Despite entering the final year of his rookie contract with no extension currently planned, expectations are high for Pickens to have a breakout season.