George Malik Pickens Jr. is one of the most talked-about wide receivers in the NFL today, not just for his athletic ability, but also for his viral draft meme and electric playmaking. Whether you’re a fan, fantasy football enthusiast, or just curious about his combine numbers, this article breaks down everything you need to know about George Pickens.
Who Is George Pickens?
George Pickens (born March 4, 2001) is an American football wide receiver currently playing in the National Football League (NFL). After an impressive college career with the University of Georgia Bulldogs, he was selected in the second round, 52nd overall, of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Originally drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pickens has become one of the league’s rising stars thanks to his mix of size, athleticism, and highlight-making ability. In 2025, he continued his career with the Dallas Cowboys, further solidifying his NFL presence.
The Meme That Made Him Famous
One of the most memorable moments of Pickens’ early career came not on the field, but during the 2022 NFL Draft. When his name was called, Pickens was seated in his living room wearing blue basketball shorts, a white T-shirt, and a ski mask (often called “shiesty”) as he watched the broadcast on TV.
That candid moment — relaxed, almost unfazed — quickly turned into a viral meme across platforms like Twitter (X), Instagram, and Reddit. Fans and internet users shared and remixed the image, making it one of the most recognizable draft day memes in NFL history.
He’s even played into the meme culture himself — from recreating the pose at events to teammates jokingly trolling him with his own meme images.
Draft Picture Explained
When Pickens’ name was called at the 2022 draft, he didn’t wear the traditional suit. Instead, he showed up in casual clothes — a choice he explained as being both humorous and a bit frustrated about not being taken in the first round. That real, unfiltered moment became iconic, marking one of the most meme-worthy scenes of that draft class.
Career Highlights & Playing Style
Pickens is known for producing jaw-dropping plays, often turning routine routes into highlight reels. Some of his signature traits include:
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Explosive deep catches
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Contested-catch ability
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One-hand grabs that draw crowd reaction
His physical frame — tall with a large catch radius — makes him a major threat on deep passes and contested situations. Whether it’s an 86-yard touchdown or a crucial third-down conversion, Pickens consistently offers game-breaking potential.
Official 40-Yard Dash Time
The 40-yard dash is one of the most talked-about NFL Combine metrics, and Pickens delivered a solid performance.
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Official 40-yard dash time: 4.47 seconds at the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine.
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He also recorded a 33-inch vertical jump and 10-foot-5-inch broad jump at the Combine.
While not the fastest in his draft class, Pickens’ time was respectable given his height and age, especially coming off an ACL injury.
Age, Height & Physical Profile
At the time of the 2024 season, Pickens was 23 years old, standing 6 ft 3 in tall and weighing around 200 lb (91 kg).
Considering his physical traits and on-field performance, Pickens has drawn comparisons to some of the best big-bodied receivers in recent NFL history.
Why George Pickens Matters
George Pickens is more than just a meme — he is an impactful playmaker whose ability to stretch the field and create big plays makes him a valued asset in today’s NFL. From viral internet fame to highlight-reel production on Sundays, Pickens represents the modern combination of cultural relevance and elite athletic performance.
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