Former Pittsburgh Steelers George Pickens arrived in Dallas with baggage and large expectations, but in addition an open mindset. Thus far, he has delivered precisely what the Cowboys have been hoping for.
“He reveals up with power, with a smile, and able to work,” offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer advised reporters. “You possibly can’t ask for extra from a man studying a brand new system.”
The vast receiver has shortly made a powerful impression since his commerce from the Steelers. His time in Pittsburgh included strong numbers, with 2,841 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns over three seasons. It was additionally marked by off-field points. These issues haven’t adopted him to Texas.
Pickens has embraced the change, committing to Schottenheimer’s offensive imaginative and prescient and exhibiting early indicators of chemistry with the crew. The 24-year-old has stood out throughout offseason exercises, not only for his athleticism but in addition for his perspective and consistency.
Now coming into a contract 12 months, Pickens is aware of this season may redefine his future. That motivation is clear. In line with Schottenheimer, the receiver has been “locked in” and vocal about his enjoyment of the velocity and adaptability of the Cowboys’ offense, which is a pointy distinction to his earlier expertise.
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In Pickens’ personal phrases, the Cowboys’ scheme has the potential to “unlock one other stage” in his sport. He identified the general crew velocity and the way it shapes the playbook.
“It’s most likely the primary time since school I’ve performed with this many quick guys,” he talked about throughout minicamp. “When the entire crew’s quick, the scheme naturally adjusts. And that modifications what I can do on the sphere.”
That adjustment is already exhibiting constructive outcomes. Whereas it’s early within the course of, the connection between Pickens and the Cowboys’ offense seems sturdy. Dallas has a participant who’s motivated not solely by a contemporary begin but in addition by a system that matches his strengths.
Proper now, he’s specializing in studying routes, constructing timing, and gaining belief. If Pickens retains transferring on this course, the drama in Pittsburgh will fade into only a footnote in what may very well be a breakout 12 months in Dallas.