For months, much of the conversation surrounding Dallas Cowboys star wide receiver George Pickens has been about money, and understandably so. His contractual standstill with the club looms large, but it also reinforces the belief that he's an excellent player deserving of a massive payday.
Despite the Cowboys' hardball approach, Pickens is undeniably gifted. He has exactly what you want in a prototypical No. 1 option, minus his character concerns, which remain a work in progress. Don't just take our word for it, though; hear what NFL legend Torry Holt had to say.
Holt is one of the greatest wideouts of all time, so it feels safe to say he's qualified to speak on the position's current state. During a recent appearance on Up & Adams, the seven-time Pro Bowler was asked who stands out to him entering 2026, and it's Pickens.
"I believe George Pickens is probably the most athletic out of all of these guys on this list," Holt stated. "As he continues to mature and clean himself up, and really dial in on what it takes to be a wide receiver in the National Football League and show consistency, production, he has it all. He could run, he can jump, he can catch, run after the catch, he can block. He can do everything on the football field — when he locks himself into his job and his job only."
NFL legend Torry Holt showers Dallas Cowboys WR George Pickens with praise
Well, hello! That's quite a glowing endorsement from a Hall of Fame-caliber playmaker. Holt gave Pickens the benefit of the doubt over some of the best receivers in the sport, namely Puka Nacua, Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson.
Heck, even fellow Cowboys offensive weapon CeeDee Lamb was included among the names, which may ruffle some feathers. That's not a slight toward him either, yet it does highlight how highly Holt thinks of Pickens.
Game recognizes game, and the rave review didn't stop there. Holt added that Pickens' raw physical traits and talent are "bar none," and frankly, it's hard to argue with that.
At 6-foot-3, 200 pounds, Pickens has outstanding size and speed to boot. He's a toolsy, explosive pass-catcher who finally put it all together when set up to succeed in Dallas. The sky is the limit for him, assuming the criticisms regarding his maturity (or lack thereof) don't rear their ugly head.
Thus far, Pickens has shown meaningful growth on and off the field with the Cowboys. He's taken the high road throughout their ongoing impasse and has been present and engaged during mandatory minicamp. The 25-year-old also has no plans to hold in (or out) at training camp.
In his inaugural campaign with Dallas in 2025, Pickens recorded 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns across 17 contests. If one believes Holt, he could be in for an even bigger season in 2026 with America's Team.
Add us as a preferred source on Google