George Pickens Locks Down WR2 Role, Jalen Tolbert and Jonathan Mingo Battle: Who Will Be Chosen?
Dallas, TX – May 18, 2025 – As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for the 2025 NFL season, their offense is stealing the spotlight with George Pickens, the star acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers, firmly securing the WR2 (wide receiver two) role alongside superstar CeeDee Lamb. However, a heated competition for the WR3 (wide receiver three) spot between Jalen Tolbert and Jonathan Mingo is heating up training camp in Oxnard, California. Who will emerge as the key piece to complete the Cowboys’ receiving trio?
George Pickens: The Unquestioned WR2 Star
Following a blockbuster trade with the Steelers mid-2024, George Pickens quickly proved his worth in Dallas. With 74 receptions, 1,149 yards, and 7 touchdowns in the 2024 season (including his time in Pittsburgh), Pickens brings explosiveness and big-play ability. His knack for contested catches, speed, and 6-foot-3 frame make him a perfect complement to Lamb, who led the NFL with 1,600 receiving yards in the same season.
Head coach Mike McCarthy didn’t hold back his praise for Pickens: “He’s a special talent. When you’ve got CeeDee drawing coverage, George exploits the space and makes things happen.” With his contract running through 2026, Pickens has locked down the WR2 role, shifting the pressure to the competition for WR3.
The WR3 Battle: Jalen Tolbert vs. Jonathan Mingo
The WR3 role, while less glamorous than WR1 or WR2, is critical in the Cowboys’ 11 personnel (1 running back, 1 tight end, 3 wide receivers) scheme, which accounted for over 60% of their offensive snaps in 2024. The WR3 must provide reliability when Lamb and Pickens face tight coverage, contributing in third-down situations or the red zone. Currently, Jalen Tolbert and Jonathan Mingo are the frontrunners for the role, each bringing distinct strengths to the table.
Jalen Tolbert: The Edge of Experience
Tolbert, a third-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, had a breakout 2024 season, recording 49 receptions, 610 yards, and 7 touchdowns, leading the Cowboys in receiving touchdowns. He played all 17 games, starting 15, showcasing consistency and growth within the offense led by Dak Prescott. At 6-foot-1, Tolbert’s precise route-running and versatility make him a dependable option in high-stakes situations.
“Tolbert has grown tremendously,” offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer said. “He knows the system and seizes opportunities when defenses key on CeeDee or George.” With his contract expiring after the 2025 season, Tolbert has immense motivation to hold onto the WR3 role, making him the current favorite in the competition.
Jonathan Mingo: Untapped Potential
Mingo, acquired via trade from the Carolina Panthers mid-2024 for a fourth-round pick, has yet to make a significant impact in Dallas. In 8 games with the Cowboys, he managed just 5 receptions for 46 yards and no touchdowns, largely due to playing with backup quarterback Cooper Rush during Prescott’s injury stint. However, Mingo’s imposing 6-foot-2, 220-pound frame and solid speed offer a different dynamic compared to Tolbert, promising versatility to the offense.
“Mingo is a raw gem,” McCarthy said. “We saw his potential in Carolina, and now it’s time for him to shine.” Mingo posted 43 receptions for 418 yards in his 2023 rookie season with the Panthers, hinting at his big-play ability if utilized correctly. With a contract running through 2027, he’s a long-term investment, and the Cowboys’ front office is reportedly eager for him to succeed to justify the trade.
Factors Shaping the Decision
The battle between Tolbert and Mingo will be decided at the 2025 summer training camp, where both will have the chance to prove themselves to Prescott and the coaching staff. Several key factors will influence the final decision:
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On-Field Performance: Tolbert holds the edge with his strong 2024 season, but Mingo could overtake him with a standout showing in preseason games or practices.
Chemistry with Prescott: Syncing with Prescott, especially in improvisational moments, will be crucial. Tolbert benefits from a year of working with Prescott, while Mingo needs time to build rapport.
Team Strategy: If the Cowboys prioritize a reliable third-down receiver, Tolbert is the safer bet. If they want a bigger target for red-zone plays, Mingo could get the nod.
Front Office Pressure: Some reports suggest owner Jerry Jones wants Mingo to succeed to validate the Panthers trade, but McCarthy and Roseman are likely to prioritize performance over sentiment.
Other receivers like KaVontae Turpin, Jalen Brooks, Ryan Flournoy, and Parris Campbell could also vie for the role, but they’re considered long shots due to limited experience or underwhelming production.
Prediction: Who Will Win?
As it stands, Jalen Tolbert is the frontrunner, thanks to his proven reliability and 2024 breakout. He’s seen as the safer choice, especially as the Cowboys aim to contend for a championship in 2025. However, Jonathan Mingo isn’t out of the race. If he capitalizes on his size and speed to make big plays in camp, he could steal the WR3 spot and emerge as a surprise weapon.
NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah weighed in: “Tolbert’s the steady hand, but Mingo has breakout potential. If Mingo clicks with Prescott, he could be a secret weapon.” Cowboys fans on X are split, with some praising Tolbert’s “no mistakes” approach and others excited about Mingo’s “physical upside.”
Outlook for the 2025 Season
With CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, and either Tolbert or Mingo at WR3, the Cowboys’ offense is poised to be one of the NFL’s most formidable units. Led by Dak Prescott, who threw for 4,200 yards and 32 touchdowns in 2024, Dallas has the firepower to challenge rivals like the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders in the NFC East.
The WR3 battle isn’t just about Tolbert versus Mingo—it’s a testament to the roster-building philosophy of Howie Roseman and Mike McCarthy, blending homegrown talent with strategic trades to craft a perfect lineup. As training camp kicks off, all eyes will be on Tolbert and Mingo, vying to become the final piece in Dallas’ offensive juggernaut.
About the Dallas Cowboys: The team is preparing for training camp and the 2025 season with their sights set on an NFC championship. Stay updated on the Cowboys at dallascowboys.com and nfl.com.
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