Rival Coach Weighs In On Cowboys' Major Offseason Addition
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As the teams in their division stacked up in the offseason, the Dallas Cowboys didn't sit on their hands. They got in the mix as well, pulling off a big trade to add to the cast of weapons around Dak Prescott. By far their biggest splash was trading for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens.
Though he's had his issues off the field, Pickens is still a high-level talent at wide receiver. Playing alongside a QB the caliber of Prescott, the former second-round pick could put together a career year in Dallas.
Given the baggage he's bringing with him, the Cowboys' acquisition of Pickens has been met with mixed feelings. That said, many still believe he could be an upgrade for the iconic franchise.
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In a recent column for ESPN, Jeremy Fowler spoke with various people across the league for their opinions of the offseason's biggest moves. While speaking anonymously, one coach in the NFC East weighed in on the Cowboys' big trade. They feel having a pair of dynamic receivers should yield big dividends for Dallas' offense.
"Dealing with CeeDee [Lamb] and him opens things up for them," a coach in the division said.
One coach in the AFC is much higher on Pickens going to Dallas, stating that the new situation should be good for him.
Added an AFC personnel man: "He'll be a big piece there. When he's covered, he's really open. I know the concerns are there, but I think having an already established passing game with veterans to help him along, and the fact he's in a contract year, will help keep him in line. If you can tap into what he can do fully, his major ability will shine through."
Read more: Cowboys Star Dak Prescott has Clear Goal Heading Into 2025 NFL Season
As stated above, Pickens has a lot riding on playing well this year. Seeing that he's in the final year of his contract, he'll be auditioning for his next deal either in Dallas or elsewhere. That said, if Pickens can limit his off-field antics and be productive for the Cowboys, it should result in him being compensated handsomely.
Before his injury-ridden 2024 season, Prescott was playing at an MVP level. He'll be aiming to return to form this year, and Pickens can help him with that. Based on how his time with the Steelers ended, the Cowboys wideout is a player many will be watching closely to kick off the 2025 campaign.
For more Dallas Cowboys and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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