The possibility of acquiring Pickens involves significant sacrifice from a key Cowboys player from last season. Appearing on The Dan Patrick Show, CeeDee Lamb expressed his willingness to restructure his contract to facilitate a deal for Pickens, thereby aiding Jones in his quest to strengthen the team.

“I mean, if it’s necessary, honestly,” Lamb replied when asked about adjusting his contract to help financially secure Pickens’ place on the Cowboys. “I’m pretty good. But I know he’s gonna get every penny that he deserves here in Dallas.”

Lamb’s commitment and his remarks about Pickens underscore his dedication and work ethic, illustrating that he is prepared to do whatever it takes to support the Cowboys‘ success next season.

Why Pickens could be pivotal for the Cowboys

Pickens emerged as a vital substitute for Lamb during the regular season when injuries struck. After his trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pickens demonstrated his potential by posting impressive stats with the Cowboys.

He electrified fans with four standout moments in the regular season that offered a glimpse of playoff aspirations:

• Week 12 vs. Philadelphia Eagles: His standout performance of the year saw him record 146 receiving yards and a touchdown in a crucial divisional clash.
• Week 4 vs. Green Bay Packers: Pickens delivered his first multi-touchdown game for the Cowboys, racking up 134 yards and two touchdowns in a 40-40 shootout.
• The “High-Point” Catch: A viral 17-yard reception where he leapt to seize the ball at its highest point, showcasing his noteworthy vertical prowess.
• Week 16 vs. LA Chargers: A pivotal late-season showing where he amassed 130 yards and a touchdown, crucial for maintaining Dallas’ playoff positioning.

Jones’ vision for Pickens next season

Alongside Lamb’s statements about his willingness to aid in Pickens’ acquisition, Jones has already made a final decision regarding Pickens’ future with the Cowboys.

Securing Pickens would represent a strategic move by Jones to preserve a high-caliber player for the upcoming season, as the Cowboys’ fanbase eagerly awaits further roster enhancements to make a significant impact in the 2026-27 season.

Despite a recent tough defeat against the Detroit Lions, the Cowboys can still win the NFC East because the Philadelphia Eagles have suffered an incredible downfall with three consecutive losses.

If the Cowboys win out and the Eagles lose two of their four remaining games, the division title would go to Jerry Jones’ team. That is why CeeDee Lamb’s status for the Week 15 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings is crucial.

Is CeeDee Lamb playing for Cowboys vs Vikings?

CeeDee Lamb is expected to play for the Cowboys against the Vikings after the wide receiver cleared the concussion protocol. The extra days of rest were key in allowing the star to recover in time.

What happened to CeeDee Lamb?

CeeDee Lamb suffered a concussion in the third quarter of the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Detroit Lions when he jumped to try to catch a pass and, as he came down, his head slammed into the turf. Although the player wanted to return at that moment, the medical staff did not clear him.

On the immediate horizon are the Minnesota Vikings, who will face the Cowboys in a high-stakes Sunday Night Football matchup at AT&T Stadium. The good news for Prescott and company is that CeeDee Lamb is making favorable progress from his concussion, raising hopes for his return.

Insider Jon Machota, via his X account, revealed the significant injury update provided by Schottenheimer regarding the wide receiver’s status: according to the HC, Lamb is “doing good. Progressing nicely.”

The incident involving Lamb, which forced him to leave the field, occurred just minutes into the third quarter. Up to that point, the wide receiver had recorded a total of six catches for 121 yards.

Lamb’s numbers this season in Dallas

Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has firmly established himself as Dak Prescott‘s principal weapon in the Dallas Cowboys’ offense this season. Through the air, Lamb has been a high-volume and efficient playmaker, racking up 57 receptions for 865 yards.

While his touchdown total stands at 3, his impressive 15.2 yards per reception average underscores his ability to turn short catches into significant gains and consistently move the chains for the Cowboys.

What lies ahead for the Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys face a critical and challenging final stretch as they fight to secure their spot in the playoffs. The team will benefit from two consecutive home games at AT&T Stadium against the Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Chargers.

The Cowboys will conclude their schedule with two key divisional road tests: first against the Commanders and finally, a potentially decisive finale against the Giants at MetLife Stadium. Dallas must emerge victorious in these high-stakes contests to ensure a postseason bid.

The concussion protocol requires a minimum of 10 days, it’s the legally required time, according to the NFL, and that is what it could take for him to suit up again with the Cowboys. This timeline suggests he will miss at least one game while recovering.

There is at least some ‘good news’ regarding Lamb’s health. In a report by Nick Harris after the Detroit game: “Caught Cowboys WR CeeDee Lamb coming out of the locker room after he exited with a concussion in the second half. Asked if he was good, he gave me a head nod.”

Fans anxious for Lamb’s return

The desire for Lamb’s return is high, not only because he has contributed the second-most receiving yards for the Cowboys this season, totaling 865 yards, but also because he is a highly valuable player for fantasy football fans, who consistently rely on him to generate points.

“The good news is that the Dallas Cowboys had an early game this week playing Thursday Night Football. Hopefully CeeDee Lamb has enough time to clear concussion protocol and get back for most people’s 1st week of Fantasy Football Playoffs,” commented Joshua Cho on X.

Who could replace Lamb?

In the event Lamb is sidelined, the Cowboys have a few options on the depth chart. KaVontae Turpin is one, having contributed a total of 286 yards and one touchdown on 21 receptions this season. The other option to help fill the void is Jonathan Mingo, who had one target but failed to complete the reception in the most recent game against the Lions.

This has not been Lamb’s year at all. The receiver has struggled to stay healthy, and those setbacks have directly impacted his production week after week. His last game was prove of it.

In Week 12, Lamb ran into problems once again. Although he recorded 75 yards, he caught just four of his 11 targets — a level of inefficiency he openly admits is below his own standards.

CeeDee Lamb gets real with Cowboys after multiple drops against the Eagles

Earlier this year, the Cowboys made the decision to acquire George Pickens. He was expected to be the team’s WR2, but halfway through the season he has taken over as the statistical WR1.

Lamb, meanwhile, has not been the dominant force fans are used to seeing. Injuries and inconsistency have defined his campaign, and the numbers reflect that reality.

The wideout has totaled 632 yards and just two touchdowns. However, those aren’t even the stats drawing the most attention. So far, Lamb has posted a 50% receiving success rate — tied for the second-lowest mark of his career alongside his 2024 season. He has not been a reliable target, and he knows it.

“It’s really just a lack of focus on my end, honestly,” CeeDee Lamb said, via the team’s website. “Just thinking of doing two before one. And there’s been plenty of that going on. And by that, I mean, I’m thinking about my next move before catching the ball, and things of that nature. There’s not really much on anybody else but myself, and I’ve never been a type to really point the finger. It’s all on me, and I gotta answer that.”

Now, the situation with the former Steelers player remains a total unknown regarding his future, as Pickens will become a free agent once this season ends. Jones, the owner and master of America’s Team, wants to see both receivers in Dallas in 2026.

“Of course, of course,” Cowboys owner said via the team’s official website, when asked if he wants Pickens in Dallas in 2026. “We are proud to have him and I don’t even want to play games with it. We’d love to have him on the team. By the way, I’d love to have [CeeDee Lamb] on the team. And I know what we’re asking around here, but we sure like the way the combination is really letting us execute on offense.”

Jerry Jones has expressed great enthusiasm about the level these two players are showing on the field, as they have been among the main playmakers alongside Prescott in the Cowboys’ impressive season.

“George has been such an integral part of our story, and he has his story, to a degree that’s our story,” the GM also added. “I’m so proud for him. Everybody on this team is, and he certainly has absolutely been the difference as we’ve played over the last two weeks… it’s something when you’ve got [CeeDee Lamb] and Pickens.”

The impact of Pickens and Lamb on Dallas’ offense

The Dallas Cowboys’ offense is heavily reliant on the dual production of wide receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, who together form one of the NFL‘s most dynamic receiving duos.

Through 11 games, Pickens has emerged as a top vertical threat, posting 67 receptions for 1,054 yards and 8 touchdowns, while Lamb has complemented this with 44 receptions for 632 yards and 2 touchdowns, primarily operating closer to the line of scrimmage. Their combined ability to win at all depths is crucial to Dallas’s offensive success and dictates how opposing defenses must try to contain the passing attack.

Will both receivers stay in Dallas next season?

The Dallas Cowboys have one major contract decision settled and one highly urgent one approaching for their star receivers. CeeDee Lamb is secure for the long term, having signed a four-year, $136 million contract extension in August 2024 that keeps him with the team through the 2029 season.

However, the focus now shifts entirely to George Pickens, who is currently playing on the final year of his rookie deal. With Pickens set to become an unrestricted free agent next offseason, signing him to a major contract extension is the Cowboys’ most pressing financial priority to keep their dynamic duo intact.

Chasing the Playoffs

Brian Schottenheimer’s team have dramatically improved their NFC East standings after Cowboys beat Eagles, solidifying their position for a playoff spot. Having won a crucial divisional contest, the team now holds significant momentum and tie-breaker advantages as they enter the final stretch of the season.

To secure a postseason berth, the Cowboys must maintain their high level of offensive efficiency and defensive consistency demonstrated in the win, ensuring they do not drop crucial games against non-divisional opponents.

According to Lamb, none of what was supposedly happening with Mike Tomlin and the Steelers regarding Pickens was true. “As far as everything that he’s doing and accomplishing, I feel like the standard that they had set for him before, like all the little antics that they had going on about him, you don’t see none of that going on here. He’s vibing.”

Now, thanks to this fresh start, Pickens is once again one of the top receivers in the NFL, taking advantage of the great year Dak Prescott has had. However, due to defensive issues, Dallas is far from being a Super Bowl contender.

Why did Steelers trade George Pickens?

The Steelers traded George Pickens because, although they never said it publicly, several reports indicated that Mike Tomlin was not happy with the wide receiver’s behavior on and off the field. Additionally, they were not willing to offer him a contract extension over $30 million per season.

Who replaced George Pickens with the Steelers?

DK Metcalf was George Pickens’ replacement with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and following a blockbuster trade with the Seahawks, he was given a massive four-year, $132 million contract. Despite that, Metcalf has not delivered, as his numbers have fallen short of expectations: 37 catches, 551 yards, and 5 touchdowns.

The argument used to justify that lack of production is that Metcalf constantly faces double coverage. In that case, the main criticism falls on Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson, who have not been able to take advantage of the opportunity. For this reason, many wonder what would have happened if Metcalf and Pickens were in the same offense alongside Aaron Rodgers.

Is George Pickens getting a new contract with Cowboys?

George Pickens is definitely earning a new contract with the Cowboys that could make him one of the highest-paid receivers in the NFL. Lamb hopes Jerry Jones gives him a big paycheck and explained what has been the difference for Pickens between the Cowboys and the Steelers.

“I just feel like he’s comfortable here. He’s happy here. He has a home here and he feels like he’s accepted. I feel like we did a great job of just welcoming him with open arms. I mean, everything that he’s done in Pittsburgh, like, bring that here. We are going to figure out everything else and how we got to grow as men and as a football player off the field. But, other than that, come and be you. With that, it was very easy for him. He understood that we weren’t trying to change him. We wanted him to come over here and do that and that’s what he’s doing. He’s actually exceeding that. So, shout out to George Pickens.”

According to a report from Calvin Watkins, this is what Lamb said about it, firmly denying the rumors claiming he was seen vomiting at 7:30 in the morning on gameday. “I was out a little late after curfew. That’s a disrespect to even suggest that. I know how to hold my liquor.”

Dak Prescott leads one of the best offenses in the NFL thanks to having two star wide receivers like Lamb and Pickens. However, ever since his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers, George’s behavior on and off the field has been a source of controversy.

Why did Cowboys bench CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens?

The Cowboys benched CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens on the first offensive series of the game against the Raiders because both missed curfew on Sunday night in Las Vegas. Another report from Clarence Hill Jr. supports what Lamb told Watkins.

“CeeDee Lamb told me he was not down stairs throwing up a 7:30 a.m. in the morning as many rumors have suggested. He said he can hold his liquor better than that. He did acknowledge he missed curfew with George Pickens and that’s why they were benched for the opening drive against the Raiders. He said they were at Red Rock where they had dinner at the steakhouse.”

After the controversy in Las Vegas, the Dallas Cowboys have a pivotal home game against the Philadelphia Eagles. A loss to the defending Super Bowl champions would practically knock them out of the playoff race.

Will Cowboys give George Pickens a contract extension?

Jerry Jones and the Cowboys intend to give George Pickens a contract extension, although they haven’t been very explicit about it publicly. The big problem they face is that they already pay Dak Prescott $60 million per season and Lamb $34 million per year.

CeeDee wants Pickens to stay in Dallas because of the great relationship they’ve built. “I have the most confidence that we’re going to keep him. I’m sure that he wants to be here with how much fun he’s having and everything that he’s accomplished on the field. For us, as his teammates, it’s pretty clear. We want you to be back. That’s my dog. We’re having a great time. It’s amazing, man. We feed off one another and he gets us going. He understands that. He knows that. The energy and everything he does on the field and off the field. The list could go on and on.”

“If he’s breathing, I’d feel pretty good. Honestly. No, I mean, CeeDee knows how to play football. If he runs around and catches a pass or two, I’m good. We’re excited that he’s trending to play. We’ll be smart about what we do with him.”

Dak Prescott is the leader of one of the best offenses in the NFL, despite losing Lamb in Week 3. Since then, George Pickens took over as No. 1 wide receiver with impressive performances. Now, if CeeDee is ready, that 1-2 punch could be unstoppable, considering the level shown by their quarterback.

Who got injured with Dallas Cowboys?

CeeDee Lamb, KaVontae Turpin, and Tyler Booker were injured with the Dallas Cowboys, but all three players could return for next Sunday’s crucial game against Jayden Daniels and the Washington Commanders.

What has already been confirmed is the season-long absence of running back Miles Sanders, which represents a tough blow to the depth chart and places greater responsibility on Javonte Williams.

Who is Cowboys’ No.1 wide receiver?

CeeDee Lamb is the No. 1 wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys if his return to face Washington is confirmed. Although George Pickens has had outstanding performances, Lamb’s return would move Pickens to the No. 2 spot.

The 2025 NFL season has been unpredictable for the Cowboys. The Lone Star franchise currently sits at 1-2-1, and Week 5 presents a big opportunity to secure their second win of the season.

Dallas travels to New York for a tough game against the Jets. Unfortunately for the NFC East team, the offense will look very different, as their star wide receiver won’t be available for this duel.

Why is CeeDee Lamb not playing for the Cowboys against the Jets in Week 5?

The Cowboys desperately need a win in Week 5, and so do the Jets. This game is expected to be exciting, with both offenses showing improvement in recent matches.

Dallas enters the matchup as favorites. However, the offense will be without a key player who could have had a huge impact on the outcome.

CeeDee Lamb is currently dealing with an ankle sprain he suffered in Week 3. That injury has ruled him out of the game against the Jets.

When will CeeDee Lamb return?

The Cowboys haven’t placed CeeDee Lamb on the injured reserve list, which is a positive sign for his recovery. However, he continues to miss games, and his status remains uncertain.

According to reports, the Cowboys expect Lamb to return in Week 7. If that timeline holds, he would miss the Week 6 game against the Panthers and be ready to face the Commanders on October 19th.

All eyes are set on the Dallas Cowboys hosting the Green Bay Packers on Sunday Night Football for many reasons. One of them is the return of pass rusher Micah Parsons to face the team that tried to lowball him in a contract negotiation. The other is there is a buck load of talent to see. However, one of those supremely talented players, CeeDee Lamb, won’t be there.

Lamb is still recovering from an ankle injury that he suffered in Week 3 against the Cowboys. He is also ruled out for Week 5 as well, but not being on the injury reserve list implies he could come back as early as Week 6.

This means Dak Prescott won’t have his best weapon available for this game. This is already an incredibly hard game for the Cowboys as the Packers have the best scoring defense in the NFL.

Who will step up as WR1 for the Cowboys?

George Pickens arrived in the offseason and he was the WR1 in Pittsburgh. He had to settle as number two in Dallas due to Lamb but now he can get the spotlight back again. Pickens has plenty of talent to produce.

The former Georgia Bulldog has two straight games with the exact same statline. Last two weeks, he got five catches on nine targets for 68 yards and one touchdown. Now, he should be getting even more looks with Lamb out.

The offense still is explosive enough to make plays

Pickens will serve as WR1 but Dak Prescott has other weapons. While they will miss Lamb, Prescott has other playmakers. Running back Javonte Williams has emerged as a certified danger from the backfield despite coming in with very low expectations.

KaVontae Turpin will have a chance to step up. Usually a very prolific kick and punt returner, Turpin was used in the backfield and as a slot receiver in preseason, so he might have the chance to shine on those roles now. Jalen Tolbert will also get more looks and he usually does the best of what he gets. While not elite, the Cowboys offense should still be able to at least threaten their opponents.