On May 7, 2025, the Dallas Cowboys finalized a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers to acquire wide receiver George Pickens. The Cowboys will receive Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. This move aims to bolster the Cowboys' receiving corps and provide quarterback Dak Prescott with a significant new weapon to complement CeeDee Lamb.

Pickens, who is 24 years old, was drafted by the Steelers in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He is entering the final year of his rookie contract. During the 2024 season, Pickens recorded 59 receptions for 900 yards and three touchdowns in 14 games. Despite his on-field performance, Pickens' time in Pittsburgh was marked by some controversies, including arguments with fans and issues that prompted criticism from coaches and fellow players.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones had hinted at "substantive trades" before or after the 2025 NFL Draft, and the acquisition of Pickens fulfills part of that goal. The Cowboys, who went 7-10 last season, are looking to improve their offense after ranking 17th in yards gained and 21st in points scored. With Brian Schottenheimer now the head coach, the team is expected to lean heavily on Prescott's arm, utilizing both Lamb and Pickens as primary targets.

The Steelers, on the other hand, will look to use the acquired draft capital to address their wide receiver needs in the future. While some believe Pickens' departure might benefit the team by removing a potential source of conflict, others question whether the Steelers made the right decision. The team had acquired DK Metcalf prior to the trade and was reportedly looking to extend Pickens' contract, according to Steelers General Manager Omar Khan.

Pickens' performance in Dallas will be crucial as he enters the final year of his rookie deal. If he performs well and meshes with the Cowboys' offense, he could secure a long-term contract. However, if he fails to meet expectations, he could become an unrestricted free agent after the 2025 season.

Several analysts have weighed in on the trade, with opinions divided on who ultimately "won" the deal. While the Steelers gain future draft picks, the Cowboys acquire a proven player who could significantly impact their offense. Ultimately, the success of the trade will depend on how well Pickens performs in Dallas and how effectively the Steelers use their newly acquired draft capital.