Trade deadline drama: Cowboys urged to dump Pickens amid coaching buzz

The Dallas Cowboys could be approaching major decisions regarding their roster, and one of the names emerging at the center of the discussion is George Pickens . After another painful loss that raised more questions about the franchise’s direction, some analysts believe Dallas should be willing to listen to offers for its star wide receiver.

The Cowboys dropped to 3-5 after blowing a 14-point fourth-quarter lead and suffering a 33-30 overtime loss to the Arizona Cardinals . The latest setback intensified criticism surrounding the team and sparked debate over Pickens’ true role within the offense.

During an analysis on Pro Football Talk , reporter Mike Florio suggested that a contending team should immediately contact Dallas about the receiver, especially with the name of Mike Tomlin gaining traction as a potential option for the franchise’s future.

“If I’m a contender looking for a receiver, I’m calling the Cowboys about George Pickens. It feels like that’s broken now. If they can get a second-round pick — they gave up a third — you move on and think about the future,” Florio said. “You have Ryan Flournoy, who isn’t George Pickens but good enough. Especially if you’re thinking about Tomlin, you don’t want Pickens around.”

The mention of Tomlin is not a coincidence. The coach worked with Pickens during his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers before the receiver was traded to Dallas, and their relationship featured some moments of tension.

A trade would also allow the Cowboys to regain valuable draft capital. Dallas acquired Pickens in May 2025 in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round selection , while receiving a 2027 sixth-round pick from Pittsburgh.

George Pickens’ role in Dallas’ offense raises questions

Pickens’ role once again became a topic of discussion following the loss to Arizona. The receiver finished the game with just two receptions for 48 yards on four targets , while also seeing fewer snaps than other offensive players: 42 snaps, compared to 50 for Ryan Flournoy and 56 for CeeDee Lamb.

Still, Pickens showed his ability to change the course of a game. A 37-yard reception played a key role in setting up Dak Prescott ’s rushing touchdown early in the fourth quarter, a play that extended Dallas’ lead to 24-10.

This season, the receiver has recorded 39 catches for 533 yards and two touchdowns . However, his contract situation is a major factor: he is currently playing under a $27.3 million franchise tag , and a long-term extension cannot be negotiated until after the regular season ends.

Dallas could use the franchise tag on him again next offseason, but if the Cowboys truly view Pickens as part of their future plans, the priority would be reaching a long-term agreement. The biggest question is whether the financial commitment fits the team’s vision.

Mike Tomlin adds more pressure to the Cowboys’ future

The name of Mike Tomlin has resurfaced around Dallas following the collapse against Arizona. During NBC’s Football Night in America, the former Steelers coach questioned the team’s inability to close out games when it has opportunities to take control.

Tomlin has been mentioned as a potential candidate if the Cowboys decide to part ways with Brian Schottenheimer . His track record makes him an appealing option for owner Jerry Jones .

During his 19 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers , Tomlin recorded 193 regular-season victories, reached the playoffs 13 times , and made two Super Bowl appearances, winning one championship.

Despite the team’s struggles, Jerry Jones said after the loss to Arizona that he was not considering a coaching change at that time, meaning Schottenheimer remains in charge.

Now, Dallas’ biggest decision could involve its roster. The NFL trade deadline is November 10 , leaving the Cowboys with one final game — against a struggling Indianapolis Colts team — before deciding whether to keep Pickens or listen to offers for one of their most talented players.