The Dallas Cowboys are sitting at a disappointing 2-4, and with the NFL trade deadline looming, the rumor mill is churning. Could the struggling franchise actually part with one of its most explosive playmakers? According to ESPN's Ben Solak, the answer might be yes.
In a recent feature, Solak floated the idea that George Pickens could be on the move, pointing to a troubling trend: “His effort level and focus seem to be waning again.” That's a red flag for any team, but it's especially concerning for a Cowboys squad already fighting to stay relevant in the NFC East. Solak also notes that Dallas will “struggle to pay Pickens and cornerback Joey Porter Jr.,” whom they recently acquired via trade. With both players needing big-money extensions, something has to give.
Solak's solution? Send Pickens packing. He specifically mentions the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Rams as ideal landing spots. “If the 2-4 Cowboys keep losing games, I'd call about Pickens on the franchise tag for the remainder of the season — we know he has game-breaking ability when he's dialed in,” he wrote. “Imagine Pickens in Los Angeles to help replace Davante Adams… or in Kansas City as Mahomes' new downfield target? Exciting stuff.”
Pickens' numbers this season tell a story of a player who's involved but not dominating. Through six games, he has hauled in 33 catches for 428 yards and just one touchdown. Compare that to this time last year, when he had 32 receptions for 525 yards and six scores. The volume is similar, but the explosive plays and end-zone production have plummeted.
Last season, Pickens was an All-Pro and Pro Bowler, posting career highs with 93 receptions, 1,429 yards, and nine touchdowns. Now, he's on pace for roughly 900 yards and three scores — hardly the kind of production that justifies a franchise tag. That dip, combined with his inconsistent effort, makes him a tricky asset to invest in long-term.
The Chiefs, undefeated at 5-0 and boasting a top-five offense, might not be desperate for a receiver, but adding a weapon like Pickens could push them over the top. Meanwhile, the Rams are a roller-coaster ride on both sides of the ball, and it's unclear if Pickens would be the quick fix they need.
But here's the catch: can either team actually afford him? The Rams are already without a first-round pick next year after their blockbuster trade for Myles Garrett, while the Chiefs still have all their draft capital. That financial and draft flexibility could make Kansas City the more likely suitor.
Of course, this all hinges on whether the Cowboys are willing to pull the trigger. They've shown a knack for making bold moves, but trading a star receiver mid-season is a big gamble. If Dallas continues to slide, don't be surprised if Pickens' name heats up in trade talks. For more on the Cowboys' recent struggles, check out this brutal assessment of the Micah Parsons trade.
And if the Chiefs do make a move, it could reshape the AFC landscape. Meanwhile, the 49ers are dealing with their own receiver drama — they're reportedly eyeing a trade for Jauan Jennings to fill the Deebo void. The trade deadline is always full of surprises, and this year is shaping up to be no different.
