
The Dallas Cowboys announced the arrival of George Pickens with great fanfare. Team vice president Stephen Jones had emphasized the need for an experienced wideout to complement CeeDee Lamb, and Pickens seemingly fit the bill.
However, despite the excitement surrounding the former Steelers star, reports indicate he was never the Cowboys’ first choice.
Jones had previously stated that the team wanted an “explosive No. 2 receiver” to play alongside Lamb. According to CowboysCountry.com, the front office had already identified several veteran receivers available via trade before the draft.
As the draft approached, Dallas management appeared content to let the board dictate their next move. “The best course was to let the draft play out first, then more seriously consider making a run at receiver,” Sports Illustrated analyst Albert Breer explained.
But recent revelations suggest the Cowboys had their sights set on another target.
The receiver Dallas really wanted
Sources within the team told Athlon Sports insider Mike Fisher that before finalizing the deal for Pickens, the Cowboys were focused on drafting Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan.
“If McMillan had been available at pick No. 12, Pickens wouldn’t be on this team,” Fisher reported.
Jones himself had confirmed that the Cowboys were weighing their options-debating whether to select a rookie receiver or pursue a trade. In the end, McMillan landed with the Carolina Panthers, forcing Dallas to reconsider its approach.
Before settling on Pickens, the Cowboys even explored deals for Baltimore Ravens receiver Rashod Bateman and some other unnamed options. But once the draft dust settled, they finally pulled the trigger on Pickens.
Did Dallas do its homework?
Pickens has long been regarded as a volatile presence in the locker room, raising concerns among Cowboys fans. However, Jones assured skeptics that the team conducted a thorough character assessment, speaking with his past teammates and individuals from his college days at Georgia.
Still, for many fans, the Amari Cooper saga remains fresh. The former Cowboys receiver posted strong numbers in Dallas but often disappeared in critical games. His perceived lack of commitment during his fourth and final season ultimately led to his departure.
Now, Cowboys fans and analysts alike are wondering: Is history about to repeat itself? Could Pickens become another costly mistake?
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