Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones believes star wide receiver George Pickens should be receiving more targets, particularly after the team's 33-30 overtime defeat to the Arizona Cardinals. Pickens played only 42 of a possible 74 snaps in the game, marking one of his lowest participation rates as a professional outside of a non-critical game last season.
"He needs the ball coming his way more," Jones stated during an appearance on 105.3 The Fan. He added that the team needs to "get the ball in that direction more and we press that." Jones also noted the team's offensive struggles, as the Cowboys managed only 93 rushing yards on 39 carries. He commended the Arizona defensive line for their performance in limiting the Cowboys' ground game.
Pickens appeared frustrated after the loss, reportedly heading to the locker room immediately after the Cardinals secured the win with a field goal. The limited targets follow a Week 7 game against the Philadelphia Eagles where Pickens also saw a reduced role. Through eight games this season, Pickens has recorded 39 catches for 533 yards and two touchdowns. This production falls short of his performance last season, when he achieved 93 catches for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns.
Adding to the concern is Pickens' contract. He is currently playing under the franchise tag, earning $27.289 million this season. Jones had anticipated Pickens and CeeDee Lamb forming a potent receiving duo to drive a playoff team. However, the Cowboys currently hold a 3-5 record, leading to fan speculation about potential trades. Jones hopes for a turnaround when the Cowboys face the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.