The news around the NFL never seems to stop. This week, there was big news around WRs. The Jacksonville Jaguars released Gabe Davis, but that was the only move.
The Dallas Cowboys sent a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to the Steelers for George Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick.
While that move makes them a better offense, it was revealed that this wasn't Dallas' first choice. According to Jordan Schultz, the Cowboys looked into a trade for Baltimore Ravens WR Rashod Bateman. The talks didn't get far, and the Cowboys decided to trade for Pickens instead.
Cowboys Called to Inquire on Rashod Bateman
Back in 2024, Bateman signed a two-year extension that keeps him locked in through the 2026 season. In four seasons with Baltimore, he had 138 receptions for 1,923 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns. He's coming off the best season of his career, posting 756 receiving yards and nine touchdowns.
Bateman is also more of a calming presence on the field. Pickens has a reputation for being a drama king on the field and having some character issues.
In addition to that, Pickens is heading into the final year of his rookie deal. He is looking to ball out in order to cash in next offseason. He has the talent to be a dynamic weapon, but that move comes with a ton of risk.
The Cowboys missed out on the playoffs last season, so they are taking some big swings in order to compete with Philadelphia.
Whether or not this works out remains to be seen, but this report shows the Cowboys were looking in a different direction before pivoting to Pickens. The Georgia product has been an emotional player in his NFL career, and this news may not sit well with him.
Yet it certainly will among Eagles fans.