George Pickens responds to coach’s criticism of his run blocking
Brian Schottenheimer wants a greater contribution from Pickens in the running game after Dallas lost to Green Bay in Week 6.
George Pickens said he was following instructions after Dallas Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer publicly challenged him to contribute more as a blocker following the team’s Week 6 defeat against the Green Bay Packers.
Speaking to reporters about his coach’s comments, Pickens said he was doing what he had been asked to do. He also framed improvement as a responsibility for the whole team rather than something limited to his own blocking.
Schottenheimer had specifically asked Pickens to do more against safeties and cornerbacks on running plays. The coach said Pickens understood the team-first approach he wanted but needed to adjust further to it.
The exchange comes during their second season together in Dallas. Pickens posted career-best numbers last season and has recorded 428 yards and a touchdown through six games this season. He joined the Cowboys in a trade after his relationship with his former team, the Pittsburgh Steelers, deteriorated.
