Jerry Jones defends George Pickens amid post-Lions game backlash
Following the Dallas Cowboys’ disappointing performance against the Detroit Lions, star wide receiver George Pickens has found himself at the center of criticism. Observers have accused Pickens of lacking effort during the game, particularly when he wasn’t the primary target in the passing game. This scrutiny has not only drawn the ire of fans but has also prompted a strong defense from teammates, coaches, and now, Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones.
Jones addresses the criticism
In a recent appearance on 105.3 The Fan, Jones expressed his belief that the criticism directed at Pickens was “not justified.” He implied that there are deeper factors at play that observers may not fully understand.
“I think the criticism of this last ballgame is being hard on him,” Jones stated. “There was more to it than met the eye. A game like that leaves us all wanting more, and of course, when we lost CeeDee [Lamb], it was glaring if we had any type of play that didn’t work the way it appeared it should work.”
Jones elaborated on how quickly opinions can shift in the NFL, especially for a player like Pickens who had been receiving praise prior to the game. “I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a body of work or a season dismissed as quickly as it was with Pickens getting criticized against Detroit. And that’s madness,” he said. He emphasized that Pickens had a strong week of practice following the game, underscoring his commitment to improvement.
Pickens’ promising potential
Before the Lions game, Pickens had been enjoying a breakout season, showcasing his talent and making significant contributions since joining the Cowboys. However, the recent criticism seems to stem from a focus on his past rather than his current achievements in Dallas.
As the Cowboys prepare for their next game, the spotlight will be on Pickens. With a chance to prove himself once again, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how he responds to the challenges that have arisen after the Lions game. The opportunity to redeem himself is just around the corner, and all eyes will be on the young wide receiver as he aims to silence his critics.

