The Dallas Cowboys' 3-5 start and George Pickens' limited involvement in the offense have sparked speculation that the team may listen to trade offers for the 25-year-old wide receiver before the November 10 deadline. Pickens, playing on the franchise tag, caught two passes for 48 yards on four targets in a recent loss, while CeeDee Lamb received 11 targets. Since offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer criticized Pickens' run-blocking effort after a loss to Green Bay, the receiver has seen just 10 targets over two games. Quarterback Dak Prescott said he goes through his reads and tries to throw to the open man, but acknowledged he needs to review film to see if Pickens was missed. With Pickens due for a lucrative second contract and the Cowboys also facing cornerback Joey Porter Jr.'s free agency, Dallas could seek draft capital to replenish a 2027 war chest depleted by trades for Porter and Quinnen Williams.
San Francisco 49ers (6-1)
The NFC's top seed has $34.98 million in cap space, the third most in the league, and a glaring need at wide receiver with Mike Evans (ribs, Achilles) and Deebo Samuel (hamstring) sidelined, plus three receivers on injured reserve. San Francisco's aging core — including Christian McCaffrey (30), Evans (33), Samuel (30), George Kittle (33), and Trent Williams (38) — makes this a win-now season.
Kansas City Chiefs (5-2)
After a fourth-quarter collapse against Denver, the Chiefs could use a true No. 1 wideout for Patrick Mahomes. Since losing Tyreek Hill in 2022, Mahomes' production has dipped: team points per game dropped from 30.3 to 23.8, passer rating from 106.2 to 96.0, and EPA per dropback from 0.24 to 0.15. Kenneth Walker III's rushing output has also declined. Adding Pickens would give Mahomes a 6-foot-3, 200-pound target alongside Travis Kelce.
Buffalo Bills (6-1)
The AFC's top seed acquired DJ Moore, but he is better suited as a No. 2 option and has dealt with shoulder and knee injuries. Josh Allen has lacked a true WR1 since Stefon Diggs was traded in 2024. Pickens could elevate Allen's efficiency and help Buffalo chase its first Super Bowl title.
Las Vegas Raiders (4-4)
Kirk Cousins has thrown 19 touchdowns, second most in the NFL, but the Raiders' top listed wideout is Tre Tucker, a 2023 third-round pick. Pairing Pickens with tight end Brock Bowers (23) and young quarterback Fernando Mendoza (23) would address both immediate and long-term needs.
Minnesota Vikings (6-1)
Despite a 6-1 record, Minnesota ranks sixth-lowest in scoring (20.0 PPG) and second-fewest in passing yards per game (165.6). Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison are established, but the Kyler Murray-led passing attack lacks rhythm. Pickens could provide an additional weapon to unlock the offense.
