George Pickens Faces Another Fine as Cowboys Tackle Penalty Issues
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens has found himself in the NFL’s crosshairs once again as he incurs yet another hefty fine. This latest penalty comes during the team’s bye week, adding to a growing tally of financial reprimands that have characterized his season.
Recent Fine for Taunting
Reports from the NFL Network reveal that Pickens has been fined $17,389 for taunting Arizona Cardinals cornerback Denzel Burke during the fourth quarter of the Cowboys’ 27-17 loss at home in Week 9. The incident occurred after Pickens made a catch; in a moment of celebration, he held the ball toward Burke, who was defending him. Although he attempted to feign a first-down signal before handing the ball to the referee, the action resulted in a 15-yard penalty that the Cowboys could ill afford at such a critical juncture.
A Season of Penalties
This most recent infraction marks the third time this season that Pickens has faced disciplinary action from the league. Earlier in the year, he was fined $14,491 for an “unsportsmanlike conduct/violent gesture” during a joint celebration with teammate CeeDee Lamb following a victory against the New York Giants in Week 2. Just a few weeks later, in Week 7’s win over the Washington Commanders, he received a fine of $11,593 for taunting cornerback Marshon Lattimore.
A Record of Costly Fines
Pickens’ fine history has become quite extensive. Since joining the Cowboys, he has accumulated a staggering total of 14 fines from the NFL, amounting to an estimated $181,953, according to Spotrac. This recent penalty against the Cardinals might have seemed minor in the context of a game that was already slipping away from Dallas, but it underscores the ongoing challenge the team faces with discipline and penalties.
Performance Amidst Controversy
Despite the off-field distractions, Pickens has been a key contributor to the Cowboys this season. In his first year with the team, he has recorded 49 receptions for 764 yards and six touchdowns. As the Cowboys prepare to return to action in Week 11 against the Las Vegas Raiders, the focus will be on how they manage both on-field performance and the growing issue of penalties that have plagued them throughout the season.
