“The next George Pickens” loves being compared to the Dallas Cowboys and former Georgia Bulldogs’ star
Former USC wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane gets compared to Dallas Cowboys star George Pickens at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine
The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine is well underway, giving media members a great insight into the top 2026 NFL Draft prospects in the class. During media availability, all of the players get asked a variety of questions ranging from their playing careers, off-field interests, and early conversations with prospective NFL teams. They are all peppered with questions in a grueling 15-minute availability.
Former USC wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane was asked an interesting question while on the podium. The media member asked about him being compared to former Georgia and current Dallas Cowboys star wideout George Pickens, who just put together an insane season in his first season in Dallas. During that season, Pickens managed to haul in 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, finally showcasing the talent that most also thought he possessed.
As you can imagine, a Pickens comparison was well received by the former USC standout. Here is what he had to say about his similarities to the Cowboys star.
“Yeah, George Pickens is a very good comparison,” Lane told the media. “I think he’s able to make those certain sketches, but at the same time, going and running, slaying out at the goal line. So being able to be compared to a guy like that is a blessing.”
Ja’Kobi Lane’s career background
Lane was considered a four-star player by some, and a three-star by others when he was coming out of the 2023 recruiting class. Starring at Mesa (Ariz.) Red Mountain, Lane was a massive recruiting win for USC coming out. The Trojans won out over an offer list of Oregon, Texas, Texas A&M, Auburn, Kansas State, Utah, Arizona State, Colorado, Iowa State, and Arizona, among others.
After serving as a solid depth piece in 2023, Lane became an instrumental piece of their wide receiver room each of the last two seasons. During his Trojan career, Lane ended with 99 receptions for 1,363 yards and 18 touchdowns. The talented wide receiver ended up playing in 30 games before declaring early for the 2026 NFL Draft class.
Ja’Kobi Lane’s biggest concerns
The comparison between Lane and Pickens is a bit of an odd one. While they boast similar frames, speed is a major area of concern for Lane, and he hopes to silence those questions this week. He is also very inconsistent playing through contact, something that Pickens also does at a very high level. Showcasing more athletic upside this week than many expect would be huge for Lane and his current evaluation. He is considered to be an early Day Three (rounds 4-7) as things currently stand.
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