The biggest move of the Dallas Cowboys' 2025 offseason was bringing in star receiver George Pickens. It is the perfect addition ahead of Dak Prescott's return to the starting lineup. Prescott and Pickens teaming up on go routes is going to unlock a piece of the veteran's game we haven't seen consistently for the past two seasons. Pickens unlocks so much for Dallas that was off the table based on the lack of an established second option. Really, since the departure of Amari Cooper, the team has lacked a needed balance.
It felt like everything was on the shoulders of CeeDee Lamb and Prescott to create offense. Adding Pickens should change this and present an offensive gear the Cowboys couldn't previously reach. However, a key aspect of bringing in Pickens is the fact that the receiver isn't afraid to voice his emotions on and off the field. Dating back to his days at Georgia, Pickens is known for a fiery outlook that can often create waves against the opposing team. This has started to appear before the 2025 preseason has even begun, with Pickens voicing his thoughts on his last offense.
New Cowboys Receiver Dunks on Former Team's Play Calling
George Pickens was used often as a deep ball player in Pittsburgh. He was asked about his full route tree and how that can be utilized in Dallas.
— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) July 22, 2025
“I’m definitely excited to run better plays.”
Pickens called his experience in Dallas a fresh start that he’s been enjoying. pic.twitter.com/Sjy06Vt2GV
Pickens offered that he was excited to "run better plays" when talking about the Dallas offense. This is a direct shot at the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arthur Smith. The offensive coordinator joined the team last season after spending three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons as the head coach. It isn't difficult to gauge that Atlanta fans share Pickens' sentiments when it comes to the former head coach.
Smith runs a bland offense that is going to run predictable routes and lean on the same concepts throughout the season. One issue for the playcaller is the fact Pittsburgh lacked the quarterback and run game to elevate these schemes. It set up a predictably frustrating finish to the season and pushed Pickens out. Bringing in Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf in 2025 as your top offensive fixes is objectively hilarious.
Something that isn't lost on Pickens, who isn't shy about shading his former team. Having watched the Pittsburgh 2025 offense, this is understandable, even if it isn't a great start to the star's new tenure. It is important to fit in with a quiet offense, not making waves and attempting to find a role behind Lamb. With that said, the frustration is understandable and the critique Pickens chose to voice is completely accurate.