When in doubt in the 1960-70s, the Dallas Cowboys told Bob Hayes simply to “go long.” They have a similar weapon in 2025 with newly acquired George Pickens.
Hayes obviously benefitted with world-class speed that won him a gold medal in the 100-meter dash at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and allowed him to lead the NFL twice in touchdowns and twice in yards per catch including a staggering 26.1 in 1970.
Pickens, acquired in a trade last month, doesn’t possess Hayes’ blinding speed. But he has proven to be one of the league’s best deep threats.
According to Pro Football Focus, Pickens was the highest-graded receiver on go routes last season with a 95.6 mark, just edging out the Washington Commanders’ Terry McLaurin and the Cowboys’ CeeDee Lamb.
Not only did Pickens lead the league with 19 deep routes, but his 26% target clip was the highest on his route tree.
“He was the only receiver to record double-digit catches from go routes, securing 10 passes for 352 yards and a touchdown,” PFF writes. “Pickens logged 36% of his receiving yardage (987 yards) on go routes last season, with each catch gaining 20-plus yards.”
Over the last three seasons, Pickens leads the NFL with 48 go-route targets and 23 catches for 822 yards and three touchdowns.
While Hayes used his raw speed, Pickens’ makes downfield catches using his size, athleticism, body control and elite hand-eye coordination.
The deep ball from Dak Prescott should be back in the playbook for the Cowboys this season.
