The Dallas Cowboys are looking to make the playoffs after missing them entirely in 2024, and one way to improve the team was to trade for wide receiver George Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers. The deal saw the Cowboys relinquish a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick in exchange for the wide receiver and a 2027 sixth-round pick.
Pickens is expected to shine as the second wide receiver in Dallas behind All-Pro CeeDee Lamb, but one of the issues regarding him has been his behavioral issues. Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin has mentioned it several times in media availabilities last season, and it could be a reason why the Steelers were comfortable moving on from him. The VP of Player Personnel discussed the behavior issues and how the team is viewing them.
Try out Pro Football & Sports Network’s FREE playoff predictor, where you can simulate every 2025-26 NFL season game and see how it all shakes out!
Will McClay Discusses Making George Pickens Deal Despite Behavior Issues
While appearing on the “DLLS Cowboys Podcast”, Cowboys VP of Player Personnel Will McClay discussed how the trade for Pickens came to be and if his perceived behavior issues were a factor in making the move.
“We looked at it, and every player we go through, we go through a number of different steps to find out who they are, not only on the field, but off the field. You talk to a number of different people and you gather all that information, and we did something that we’re comfortable with.”
“At the end of the day, it’s a 24-year-old young man that’s continuing to grow, and they have to be put in situations to help him grow, and hopefully we can help him continue to grow, and he can help our football team grow. Not only with his ability, but who he is as a man, and we’ll try and help him do that.”
#Cowboys Will McClay on the trade for George Pickens and how it came together.
(🎥: @DLLS_Cowboys on YT) pic.twitter.com/W7xkYKH1If
— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) May 19, 2025
Pickens is likely going to be on his best behavior as he is in a contract season with the Cowboys after being a second-round pick in 2022. Reports say the Cowboys are not going to extend him going into the season, so how he is both on and off the field could play a major role in how his next contract looks.
Dallas struggled offensively last season as they were 23rd with a 68.2 Offense+ grade. Pickens finished last season with 59 receptions on 103 targets for 900 yards (15.3 yards per catch) with three touchdowns while also losing one fumble.
With a change of scenery, things could change, and the bright lights of Dallas could make him focus on being the best player on the field he can be.