FRISCO, Texas — George Pickens isn’t interested in playing defense off the field anymore.
The Cowboys wide receiver addressed recent criticism surrounding his effort this week, making it clear his focus hasn’t wavered — even if the noise around him has grown louder. Pickens acknowledged the commentary but said it no longer carries weight in his day-to-day approach.
“Everybody has a job to do,” Pickens said. “Some people’s job is to do that, tear down character, see how many clicks they can get. I’m just here to play football and help the team. … It’s starting to get kinda old.”
On the field, Pickens’ production continues to answer the questions. In addition to ranking seventh in the NFL with eight receiving touchdowns, he sits third league-wide with 1,212 receiving yards. That total also stands as the most ever by a Cowboys player in his first season with the team, underscoring his immediate impact in Dallas.
Dallas has leaned on Pickens’ physicality and playmaking ability as the season has worn on, and within the locker room, his role hasn’t changed. Coaches have continued to praise his preparation, while teammates point to his competitiveness as a constant, not a question mark.
Pickens didn’t deny hearing the chatter — he simply dismissed it. Rather than engage publicly or escalate the debate, the fourth-year receiver said his response will remain the same: show up, line up and produce on Sundays.
For the Cowboys, that’s the only answer that matters. As postseason pressure tightens and every snap carries added weight, Dallas is counting on Pickens to do what he’s always done best — make plays, not headlines.
