Prescott’s new top target should be locked into lineups with Lamb sidelined
DALLAS (AP) — The Dallas Cowboys are without CeeDee Lamb after an ankle injury in Week 3. His absence moves George Pickens into the No. 1 receiver role and makes him a must-start option in fantasy football.
Pickens joined Dallas with a reputation for contested catches and flashes of big-play ability. He now has a chance to prove he can handle volume as the lead option in the passing game.
From secondary to primary
Through three games, Pickens has 13 receptions for 166 yards and two touchdowns. Those numbers came while working behind Lamb. With Lamb sidelined, Pickens moves to the front of the target tree.
The Cowboys will still mix in Jalen Tolbert and KaVontae Turpin, and tight end Jake Ferguson should see work across the middle. But the downfield routes and red-zone looks fall to Pickens. His size and physical style make him the clear WR1 in the interim.
Prescott connection
Pickens now plays with the best quarterback of his career. Dak Prescott gives him an upgrade over the inconsistency he dealt with in Pittsburgh.
Prescott trusts his primary receivers and feeds them in key situations. That trust is already building with Pickens. Prescott has looked his way on contested throws and deep balls. Without Lamb, the volume should rise.
Usage outlook
Pickens projects for eight to 12 targets per game as the top option. His current pace already averages more than 55 yards per game. A larger workload puts him in position for 100-yard outings and steady touchdown chances.
Dallas needs explosive plays to balance its offense. At 1-2, the Cowboys are searching for consistency. Prescott will lean on Pickens to keep drives alive and stretch the field.
Fantasy impact
Fantasy managers should start Pickens in all formats. His role is secure, and his volume is trending up. In daily fantasy, he brings WR1 usage at a mid-range price, making him a strong play in both tournaments and cash contests.
Pickens’ combination of target share, red-zone opportunities and quarterback play makes him one of the safest bets on the Week 4 slate.
Breakout chance
Pickens has shown the ability to win on the boundary and finish drives in the end zone. With Lamb out, he finally gets the workload that matches his skill set.
Bottom line
Pickens is stepping into the WR1 role in Dallas. He has the skill set. He has the quarterback. He has the volume.
Fantasy players should not hesitate. Lock him into season-long lineups and DFS builds in Week 4.
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