NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport just dropped a bomb, stating the Dallas Cowboys “aren’t trading George Pickens,” effectively shutting down the massive trade buzz surrounding the wide receiver. This news comes right after the Cowboys took another gut punch, falling 33-30 in overtime to the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday and pushing their season record to a disappointing 3-5.
The Verdict From an NFL Insider
With the NFL’s Nov. 10 trade deadline fast approaching, everyone’s been on edge wondering what owner and general manager Jerry Jones would do, especially after that ugly loss to the Cardinals. Pickens’ name was all over the rumor mill. But according to Rapoport, who appeared on the Pat McAfee Show on Tuesday, the chatter can mostly cool down. He said straight up, “I was told the Dallas Cowboys aren’t trading George Pickens.” Zachary Krueger of NBC Sports backed this up, adding that Rapoport also stated, “As of right right now, there’s nothing there” on a potential deal.
This is huge, right? After all the speculation, the insider says it’s a no-go. With Jones himself previously saying Pickens needs to see more targets, it makes sense to assume Pickens will finish out the season in Dallas. Still, Rapoport’s update came with the classic “never say never” until Nov. 10 officially passes.
Pickens’ Impact and the Cowboys’ Reality Check
Now, let’s talk about Pickens himself. He is playing this season on the franchise tag, and while he hasn’t hit the monster production he had in 2025 when he exploded for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, he is still a major piece in that offense. Krueger highlighted that Pickens ranks 14th in the league among all receivers in targets and is 12th in total air yards. So, despite his “underwhelming production” relative to his breakout year, he is clearly still a focal point.
The Cowboys’ 3-5 record is tough to swallow, especially with all the hype heading into the season. But get this: they are still somehow in the race to win what’s been called an “underwhelming NFC East.” That’s the silver lining, if you can even call it that right now. Keeping Pickens, a player who clearly draws defensive attention and big targets, could be their bet on turning things around for that division push.
The Cowboys now face the 2-6 Indianapolis Colts this Sunday. This is a must-win game for Dallas, especially after getting crushed in overtime last week. With Pickens seemingly staying put, all eyes will be on how he performs and if the Cowboys can finally string some wins together to make a real run at that wide-open division title before the clock runs out on their season.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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