Overview
George Pickens is a 6′3″ (1.91 m), 200 lb (90 kg) wide receiver currently playing for Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. He was born on March 4, 2001 and played college football at Georgia Bulldogs.
Draft & Contract History
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Pickens was drafted in the 2022 NFL Draft, selected in the 2nd round, 52nd overall pick by Pittsburgh Steelers.
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In May 2025, he was traded from the Steelers to the Cowboys in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick; the Cowboys also sent a 2027 sixth-rounder alongside Pickens.
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At the time of trade, he was still on the final year of his rookie contract, due to make roughly US$ 3.526–3.656 million in 2025.
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As of late 2025, with Pickens performing at a high level, talks about a new deal — possibly a significant extension — are expected.
Career & 2025 Season Stats
According to official stat tracking:
| Season | Team | Games Played | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Avg Yards/Rec | TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Pittsburgh | 17 | 52 | 801 | 15.4 | 4 |
| 2023 | Pittsburgh | 17 | 63 | 1,140 | 18.1 | 5 |
| 2024 | Pittsburgh | 14 | 59 | 900 | 15.3 | 3 |
| 2025 | Dallas | 12* | 73 | 1,142 | 15.6 | 8 |
| Career (2022–2025) | — | 60 GP | 247 | 3,983 | 16.1 | 20 |
* as of current 2025 regular-season stats.
2025 Season Highlights
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Through Week 13 of 2025, Pickens has amassed 1,142 receiving yards, placing him 2nd in the NFL in receiving yards.
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He has recorded 73 receptions and 8 touchdowns — career highs.
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In a key game vs Philadelphia Eagles, Pickens caught 9 passes for 146 yards and a touchdown, a performance praised by his quarterback Dak Prescott, who said Pickens is “not from this planet.”
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Analysts believe Pickens’ 2025 season ranks among his best, demonstrating WR1-level production and validating the Cowboys’ offseason trade decision.
Injury History & Availability
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During 2024 with the Steelers, Pickens missed three games due to a hamstring injury.
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In more recent 2025 updates, he’s been listed as questionable for games due to calf/knee issues.
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Despite this, his overall availability and performance in 2025 remain strong, and he has emerged as a reliable offensive weapon for Dallas when healthy.
2025 Performance & Impact
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The trade to Dallas appears to have revitalized Pickens’ career: his 2025 numbers are career highs in yardage and touchdowns, and he is on pace for possibly 1,600+ receiving yards if he maintains his current form.
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With top-tier quarterback play and a strong supporting cast, Pickens has proven he can function as a true WR1.
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His explosive playmaking — deep catches, contested-catch ability, and yards-after-catch — have made him a key part of the Cowboys’ aerial attack.
What’s Next: Contract & Outlook
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As 2025 is the final year of his rookie deal, Pickens is likely to command a major new contract — possibly in the upper tier of NFL wide receivers — thanks to his breakout season.
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According to insiders, management with the Cowboys is preparing for negotiations; his value is considerably higher now, especially if he stays healthy and maintains consistency.
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If Pickens can sustain his 2025 production and avoid major injuries, he could be a centerpiece of the Dallas offense for years — a decision point between a long-term extension or franchise-tag plays.
Conclusion
George Pickens’ 2025 season is shaping up to be a breakout campaign. After a modest start with the Steelers, he has flourished in Dallas — posting career highs in receptions, yards, and touchdowns, and ranking among the best receivers in the league. With one year left on his rookie contract, a major extension seems likely if he maintains his form and health. For Cowboys fans and NFL watchers alike, Pickens is rapidly emerging as a key piece in Dallas’ offensive future.
