The Dallas Cowboys' season opener wasn't exactly the dominating debut fans hoped for when it came to the arrival of George Pickens. The veteran playmaker left the Pittsburgh Steelers with a reputation for knowingly getting frustrated, and it didn't take long for that frustration to emerge in his Dallas debut.
Pickens had one lowlight in Week 1 and only finished with 30 receiving yards and three catches on four targets, but continued to run his routes and play hard throughout the night. Nevertheless, Cowboys fans looking for a reason to buy into Pickens will love the developments of the last week after the underwhelming debut.
The Cowboys WR is saying all of the right things despite having every reason for frustration, according to The Athletic's Jon Machota, when asked about his Dallas debut.
"“Really just staying open for them. I’m not really worried about the touches, catches, all that stuff. I’m just trying to stay open for the team. I’m trying to focus on (getting) the first win.”"George Pickens
This is who the Cowboys need Pickens to be moving forward if they are going to reach the hoped-for potential. With Micah Parsons long gone, Dallas only has postseason hopes if quarterback Dak Prescott and the offense can carry the team. To hear Pickens focused on a win and not his personal stats is greatly encouraging that this is still possible.
Cowboys Fans Looking to Buy Into George Pickens' Transformation Will Love His Latest Comments
What's funny about this quote is the fact that Pickens is going to need to produce at a much higher level for Dallas to get that first win. Still, to hear the former Georgia Bulldog not complain about his lack of targets or slow start to the 2025 season was a welcome development for Cowboys fans. Pickens is insanely talented and could quickly give Dallas the best receiving tandem in the league.
However, dating back to the receiver's days at Georgia, there were questions about maturity and decision-making when he wasn't being fed the football. This bled into his time in Pittsburgh and gave Pickens a chance for a fresh start in Dallas, and judging by his words, he won't let the opportunity slip through his hands. He's quickly embracing his role opposite CeeDee Lamb and giving fans every reason to buy in.
If Prescott can get on the same page with Pickens in Week 2, it is fun to imagine what this trio might accomplish together. As long as the ex-Steeler continues this outlook and is content doing what it takes to win, the Cowboys will have hope of becoming a surprise contender in the NFC.