George Pickens isn’t going anywhere. Despite the Dallas Cowboys sitting at a disappointing 3-5 record and widespread trade buzz, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport shot down all speculation, flat out reporting, “there’s nothing here and that it is not happening” regarding any deal before the November 10 deadline. This is a bold play, especially with Pickens currently on the franchise tag and facing an uncertain future beyond this season.
Why Everyone Thought Pickens Was Out
Honestly, who *didn’t* see the trade rumors flying? The Cowboys have looked far from a legitimate contender at 3-5, a record that usually screams “seller” at the deadline. Add to that the fact that George Pickens, a 2025 Pro Bowler, is playing on the franchise tag, and you had all the ingredients for a blockbuster move. Pickens put up career-highs last year with 93 catches, 1,429 yards, and nine touchdowns, and he’s still a critical piece of that offense, with 39 catches for 533 yards and two touchdowns through eight games this season. Logic practically screamed for Dallas to get some assets if they weren’t going to commit long-term.
The Cowboys’ Unexpected Bet on the NFC East
So, why the hold-up? It comes down to two major factors: the division race and the team’s belief in its talent. Rapoport himself pointed out the division is “wide open,” and he’d be “surprised to see them trading a playmaker.” He’s not wrong. The New York Giants are currently leading the division at 4-2-1, but they are relying on J.J. McCarthy at quarterback with Jaxson Dart sidelined by injury. Plus, the Cowboys still get to play the Giants on the road in Week 17, a game that could completely swing the division. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones even told 105.3 The Fan he doesn’t see the team making any “notable trades” in the immediate future.
With talent like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, Pickens, and Javonte Williams on the roster, the Cowboys are clearly banking on a second-half surge. Trading Pickens, who has obvious chemistry with Prescott, would not only hurt their chances for the division crown right now, but it would also prevent any long-term contract discussions down the line. It seems the Cowboys are making their move not by trading, but by standing pat. It’s a gamble, for sure. If Pickens isn’t finishing the season in Dallas, it would truly be stunning.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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