Cowboys Have No Plans to Trade George Pickens, per NFL Network Report

The Dallas Cowboys' 3-5 record has fueled rumors that the team could be sellers at the NFL trade deadline, with wide receiver George Pickens—playing on the franchise tag—mentioned as a possible candidate to be moved. However, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport poured cold water on that idea during an appearance on Tuesday's episode of The Pat McAfee Show.

"I was told there's nothing here and that it is not happening," Rapoport said. "As of right now, literally nothing there. The way the Cowboys' division is, it is wide open. I would be surprised to see them trading a playmaker."

The Cowboys are indeed still within striking distance of the first-place New York Giants in the NFC East. New York sits at 4-2-1 but is relying on J.J. McCarthy at quarterback with Jaxson Dart sidelined by injury. The Giants also must travel to Dallas in Week 17, giving the Cowboys a chance for a crucial late-season head-to-head win.

With talents like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, Pickens, and Javonte Williams on the roster, a rally from the slow start is not out of the question. Trading Pickens would severely damage those division hopes. The 2025 Pro Bowler has 39 catches for 533 yards and two touchdowns through eight games this season, following a career year in which he posted 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine scores.

Pickens has obvious chemistry with Prescott, and dealing him before the deadline would also hinder the Cowboys' ability to engage in long-term contract talks with the star receiver. Team owner Jerry Jones added further certainty, telling 105.3 The Fan that he doesn't foresee any notable trades in the immediate future.

Between Jones' comments and Rapoport's reporting, it would be stunning if Pickens finished the season anywhere but Dallas.

Key Analysis

The Cowboys' decision to hold onto Pickens underscores their belief that they can compete in a mediocre NFC East. At 3-5, Dallas is far from eliminated, and the Giants' quarterback situation makes the division even more volatile. Keeping Pickens maintains a key weapon for Prescott and preserves the possibility of a long-term extension. Trading him would signal a surrender on the season—a move the front office clearly isn't ready to make.

Originally reported by bleacherreport.