George Pickens wasn’t Jerry Jones’ first pick — Cowboys secretly wanted a Ravens standout instead

The Dallas Cowboys made headlines with a strategic offseason trade, securing wide receiver George Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers in a move aimed at elevating their offensive firepower. Fans are eager to see how Pickens, known for his dynamic playmaking, will pair up with star wideout CeeDee Lamb. But as excitement builds around this fresh duo, it’s now known that Pickens wasn’t the front office’s top target—Baltimore Ravens’ Rashod Bateman had originally been in Dallas’ sights.FOX Sports insider Jordan Schultz confirmed Dallas had initially pursued Rashod Bateman. “During their pursuit of a receiver, the #Cowboys also looked into a trade for #Ravens WR Rashod Bateman,” Schultz shared via social media. “Those talks didn't go far, and Dallas ultimately struck a post-draft deal with the #Steelers for George Pickens.” According to Schultz, the Cowboys' effort to land a wideout had been part of a “months-long process.”The pursuit of Bateman was no surprise given his recent surge in performance. Bateman posted a career-high 756 receiving yards in 2024 and recorded nine touchdowns, securing the second spot on the Ravens’ receiving leaderboard. He extended his strong form into the postseason with two more touchdowns, underlining his value as a red-zone asset.Though injuries have plagued parts of his four-year NFL career, Bateman’s totals—138 receptions, 1,923 yards, and 13 touchdowns—demonstrate consistency and a skill set that could have meshed seamlessly with Prescott’s offensive rhythm. His route-running, in particular, would have added precision to Dallas' aerial attack.But when trade talks with Baltimore lost traction, Dallas turned its attention to Pickens, whose upside and youth offered a different kind of promise. The Cowboys ultimately struck a deal that sent a 2026 third-round and a 2027 fifth-round pick to Pittsburgh in exchange for Pickens, while also receiving a 2027 sixth-round selection from the Steelers.Pickens enters the fold with undeniable playmaking ability. Known for his acrobatic catches and fearless contested grabs, he had moments of brilliance in Pittsburgh despite the team's instability at the quarterback position. His physicality, vertical threat potential, and highlight-reel hands give Dallas the kind of weapon that can stretch defenses and draw attention away from Lamb.However, the former Steeler also brings with him some off-field concerns. Questions surrounding his maturity and emotional control have trailed him since his college days and persisted throughout his early NFL career. For Pickens to thrive alongside Lamb and Prescott, proving he can maintain composure and focus will be essential.Still, there’s no denying the upside of this pairing. With Lamb commanding double coverage and Prescott’s willingness to air it out, Pickens could quickly become a breakout star in Dallas. The Cowboys' front office, often cautious with future draft picks, took a calculated gamble with this move—one that could pay dividends if Pickens evolves into the reliable WR2 they need.Although the Bateman deal didn’t materialize, Dallas may have found a higher-ceiling option in Pickens, provided he grows into the role. With the 2025 season looming, the Cowboys’ offense suddenly looks more explosive—and more dangerous—than it did just a few weeks ago.Also Read: Shedeur Sanders opens up on hate he receives, says ‘99% of hatred’ is actually directed at dad Deion