The Dallas Cowboys made headlines earlier this week with their bold move to trade for wide receiver George Pickens, a talented but sometimes polarizing playmaker who instantly reshapes the offensive outlook. For Pickens it’s a fresh start, and one he’s “grateful” for, as he steps into a more stable quarterback situation with Dak Prescott and a chance to play alongside All-Pro CeeDee Lamb. While the offensive buzz is real, the move also raises stakes for players like Jalen Tolbert and Jonathan Mingo, who now face stiffer competition just to earn meaningful reps in 2025.
But while the offense continues to stack talent, big questions remain on the defensive side of the ball. The cornerback room is crowded but far from settled, especially with Trevon Diggs still rehabbing and no proven slot option in place. Meanwhile, the interior defensive line remains one of the weakest units on the roster despite offseason additions, and it’s unclear if the team has enough upfront to stop the run consistently. In short, the Cowboys’ 2025 ceiling may depend not just on how well Pickens meshes into the offense, but whether the defense can hold up its end of the bargain.
New Cowboys WR George Pickens ‘grateful’ to play with Dak Prescott, thrilled to ‘work off’ CeeDee Lamb – CBS Sports
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George Pickens found out he was traded to the Cowboys through social media, but he’s embracing the move and excited to join a winning culture in Dallas. Though he didn’t request a trade, he’s grateful for a fresh start with a stable quarterback in Dak Prescott after dealing with constant turnover in Pittsburgh. Pickens downplayed concerns about his past behavior and fit alongside CeeDee Lamb, emphasizing teamwork and a shared goal of winning. Entering a contract year, Pickens isn’t focused on an extension yet, saying he’s “where his feet are.” He’s eager to get started once he sorts out logistics like housing and transportation.
Jobs in Jeopardy: George Pickens trade puts these Cowboys wideouts on notice – Cowboys Wire
The Cowboys’ addition of George Pickens gives them a true X receiver and significantly boosts their receiving corps for 2025. His presence locks in a top duo with CeeDee Lamb, pushing other receivers like Jalen Tolbert and Jonathan Mingo into a heated battle for the Z role. Kavontae Turpin remains the slot option, while Parris Campbell and others face uphill battles just to make the practice squad. Pickens’ arrival not only elevates the offense but reshapes the WR depth chart entirely. Training camp will determine who sticks and who gets squeezed out.
Biggest remaining need for all 32 NFL teams – Pro Football Focus
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The Cowboys’ interior defensive line remains a major weakness entering 2025. Mazi Smith and Osa Odighizuwa return as starters after underwhelming run-defense performances last season, earning poor PFF grades of 35.9 and 50.8. The addition of Solomon Thomas doesn’t inspire much optimism either, as he posted a 41.5 run-defense grade with the Jets. Stopping the run remains a glaring issue for this defensive front.pff
Pickens trade has pros and cons for Cowboys due to non-football concerns – Cowboys Wire
The Cowboys finally addressed their wide receiver need by trading for George Pickens, sending a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 Day 3 swap to Pittsburgh. Pickens offers elite deep-ball ability and immediately fills the WR2 void next to CeeDee Lamb. However, questions remain about his maturity and locker room fit, as well as the risk of losing him after 2025 since he’s entering the final year of his rookie deal. With contract extensions looming for other stars, this move marks a rare gamble for a front office that typically builds through the draft. It’s a high-upside, high-risk bet Jerry Jones is willing to make.
Cowboys’ second-year OL chosen as ‘top breakout candidate’ – Sports Illustrated
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The Cowboys’ 2025 offseason feels different, not just because of a new head coach, but due to the growing optimism around their recent draft classes. One name drawing breakout buzz is second-year center Cooper Beebe, highlighted by PFF’s Jonathon Macri as Dallas’ top breakout candidate. Beebe impressed as a rookie run blocker and is expected to elevate his pass protection in Year 2. With Beebe, Tyler Guyton, and Tyler Booker all under 24, the Cowboys may have a young offensive line core set to anchor the team for years to come.
$30 million investment not enough for Cowboys at this position in 2025 – Cowboys Wire
With the WR room stabilized by the addition of George Pickens, cornerback depth is now the Cowboys’ biggest concern heading into 2025. While DaRon Bland and Trevon Diggs are strong starters, Diggs’ knee recovery and rookie Shavon Revel’s injury history create uncertainty. Backup options like Caelen Carson and Kaiir Elam come with major question marks, and the team no longer has a proven slot corner after losing Jourdan Lewis. Despite investing nearly $30 million in the position, Dallas lacks reliable depth behind its top guys—making CB the defense’s most vulnerable unit.
Post-NFL draft breakout candidates for all 32 teams – Pro Football Focus
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Second-year center Cooper Beebe has been pegged as the Cowboys’ breakout player for 2025 by PFF’s Jonathon Macri. After ranking 13th among centers in PFF grade (65.4) as a rookie, Beebe showed strong run-blocking skills and could develop into a top-tier pass protector—his collegiate strength—as he enters Year 2. With the Cowboys investing heavily in young offensive linemen, Beebe is expected to be a cornerstone of their rebuilding front.
Cowboys made several changes to LB in 2025, their new DC’s forte – Cowboys Wire
The Cowboys’ linebacker room has seen another overhaul after a year of progress in 2024. Eric Kendricks is gone, replaced by Kenneth Murray and Jack Sanborn, both of whom bring experience and scheme familiarity under new DC Matt Eberflus. Murray offers athleticism and production, while Sanborn adds depth and special teams value. The development of Marist Liufau and rookie Shemar James, plus a full return from DeMarvion Overshown, will determine the ceiling of the unit. Dallas is banking on internal growth and smart additions to elevate the position.
Depth Chart: Trevon Diggs’ rehab tops Cowboys’ list of questions at cornerback – DallasCowboys.com
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With 13 cornerbacks now on the roster, the Cowboys’ secondary is set for one of the fiercest position battles of the offseason. Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland are locked in as starters, though Diggs may miss time early, leaving a wide-open race for CB2 and slot duties. Israel Mukuamu, shifting back to corner after years bouncing between safety and corner, has a chance to shine in his first real shot at the role. Rookie Shavon Revel and former first-rounder Kaiir Elam also bring upside and physical traits that fit Matt Eberflus’ aggressive, takeaway-driven defense. With a third of the roster overhauled, cornerback may be the most volatile and vital group to watch.
Cowboys’ hopes to emerge from dark season hinge on the return to form of their leader – Cowboys Wire
After a disappointing 7-10 season in 2024, the Cowboys are leaning on a major source of hope for 2025: a healthy Dak Prescott. Limited to just eight games last year due to a hamstring injury, Prescott’s return brings leadership, stability, and renewed confidence to the offense. Despite postseason criticisms, his 76-46 regular-season record shows he’s a proven winner. With roster upgrades at receiver, running back, and offensive line, Dallas is primed for a rebound. But no change is bigger than having No. 4 back under center.
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This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: News: Cowboys bet on Pickens, but will defensive gaps impact 2025