Two Cowboys Players Who Need More Playing Time Against the Ravens in Brazil
- The Dallas Cowboys are traveling to Brazil to face the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, following a win against the Washington Commanders.
- The Cowboys entered the season relying on first-round draft pick Malachi Lawrence to serve as an immediate impact pass rusher.
- Wide receiver George Pickens has opened the season slowly following a career year in 2025.
The Dallas Cowboys are traveling to Brazil to face the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, following a win against the Washington Commanders. Ahead of the international matchup, analysis indicates that Dallas needs to increase playing time for edge rusher Malachi Lawrence and wide receiver George Pickens to secure a victory.
Expanding Malachi Lawrence’s Pass-Rush Role
The Cowboys entered the season relying on first-round draft pick Malachi Lawrence to serve as an immediate impact pass rusher. Lawrence logged an uneventful performance in the season opener against the New York Giants while playing just 11 pass-rush snaps. In the Week 2 matchup against Washington, Dallas raised his pass-rush opportunities to 16 snaps. That increased playing time yielded three total pressures, two hurries, and one quarterback hit. According to Pro Football Focus, Lawrence registered a 74.6 pass-rush grade and a 33.3% win rate, both leading marks for the Dallas defense. Facing a Baltimore offense led by quarterback Lamar Jackson, the Cowboys must give Lawrence more pass-rush opportunities to pressure Jackson in Brazil.
Getting George Pickens Involved in the Offense
Wide receiver George Pickens has opened the season slowly following a career year in 2025. Through two games, Pickens has recorded nine catches for 68 yards, averaging 7.6 yards per reception without a touchdown. None of his nine receptions have exceeded 12 yards. During the previous game against Washington, CeeDee Lamb served as the primary focal point of the Dallas offense, limiting targets for Pickens. Facing a talented Baltimore defense that surrendered three receptions of 20 yards or more to the New Orleans Saints, Dallas needs to feature Pickens alongside Lamb. Whether through deep routes or quick throws that allow yards after the catch, the Cowboys must push the ball to Pickens early on Sunday.