Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens had his best performance of the season so far in Week 2. The veteran playmaker played a key role in the thrilling 40-37 win over the New York Giants, as he hauled in five catches for 68 receiving yards and a touchdown.
With some positive momentum going into Week 3, Pickens couldn't contain his excitement about his expanded route tree with the Cowboys when asked about it on Wednesday.
"For me personally, it’s just like, pick your poison," Pickens said, per The Athletic's Jon Machota. "I can run a slant and get a first down. I can go-ball (and get a) first down, touchdown. (I can run) an in-route. Just running all the routes, trying to stay open."
George Pickens Thrilled With Route Tree in Dallas
Upon arrival, Pickens took a jab at his former team when he told 105.3 The Fan that he's "definitely excited to run better plays" in Dallas. Now, it looks like he's getting his wish.
During his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pickens ran a lot of Go routes and hitches, but felt he was capable of doing more. The Cowboys made it clear they planned on using Pickens in a more diverse role, as he was even taking some snaps in the slot during training camp.
Pickens is in a contract year, so adding these different routes is only more beneficial for him. This shows teams around the league what he's capable of, and as the season goes on, this adds another layer of excitement to the fanbase.
Everyone knows what CeeDee Lamb can do, and having another dynamic pass catcher in the offense only raises the ceiling of this team. Things take time to gel together, and the Cowboys' offense showed its potential in Week 2.
They'll have a chance to put up big numbers again, and Pickens could be in the fold for a huge contest. The Chicago Bears are ranked 28th in total defense (382.5), 22nd in pass defense (234), and last in scoring defense (39.5). Last week, Detroit Lions wideouts Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams finished with 100-plus receiving yards versus the Bears.
There's room for Pickens to record his first 100-yard game with the Cowboys and continue to display the abundance of different routes he's running in Dallas. This keeps defenders on their toes as they don't know what route he will run.
The variety of routes will continue to open things up for the passing game and put Pickens in positions to succeed.