George Pickens Faces Criticism, but Jerry Jones Stands Firm in Support of Cowboys Receiver
The Dallas Cowboys found themselves on the wrong side of a decisive 44-30 loss to the Detroit Lions on Thursday Night Football, marking the end of a promising three-game winning streak. The defeat not only stung for the Cowboys but also ignited a wave of criticism directed at star wide receiver George Pickens, raising questions about his performance during the game.
Defending Pickens Amidst Critique
As the chatter swirled, with pundits questioning Pickens’ effort on the field, support from within the Cowboys’ organization remained steadfast. Jerry Jones, the team’s owner and general manager, took to the airwaves on 105.3 The Fan for his weekly segment on Tuesday morning, where he voiced his unwavering confidence in Pickens.
“Just so I’m real clear about it, I don’t have any concern about the debate about what George Pickens did or didn’t do in that game,” Jones asserted, reinforcing his belief in the receiver’s abilities. “He brings everything to the table to frankly live with what’s going on with this type of criticism.”
Jones’ comments echoed those made by head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who also defended Pickens following the loss. The hope now is that Pickens can rebound from this setback and return to the elite form that has characterized his season when the Cowboys host the Minnesota Vikings at AT&T Stadium for Sunday Night Football. Kickoff is set for 8:20 p.m. ET, with fans eager to see how Pickens responds.
Pickens Poised for a Big Payday
As the season progresses, George Pickens is not only looking to silence critics but also positioning himself for a lucrative contract. After a breakout year with the Cowboys, he is set to be a hot commodity in the offseason. According to projections from Over the Cap, the franchise tag for a wide receiver in 2026 could reach approximately $28.046 million.
In the open market, Spotrac estimates that Pickens could command a five-year deal worth around $153.7 million, averaging $30.8 million per year. This potential contract would position him as the sixth-highest-paid receiver in the league, a testament to his impressive performances this season.
Through Week 14, Pickens has recorded 78 receptions for 1,179 yards, placing him third in the NFL for receiving yards and fifth in receiving touchdowns. As the Cowboys look ahead, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on Pickens, both for his on-field performance and his impending financial windfall.
Looking Ahead
As the Cowboys prepare to face the Vikings, the narrative surrounding George Pickens continues to evolve. With the backing of Jones and the organization, Pickens is expected to shake off the recent criticism and showcase the talent that has made him a key player for Dallas. The upcoming game will be crucial not only for the team’s playoff aspirations but also for Pickens’ personal trajectory as he aims to solidify his status in the league.
