The Dallas Cowboys continue to back wide receiver George Pickens despite ongoing discussion surrounding his franchise-tag situation. Quarterback Dak Prescott addressed the situation Thursday during the team's annual charity home run derby, where the Cowboys raised $80,000 for the Salvation Army, and made it clear he is not concerned about Pickens missing voluntary offseason workouts.
Pickens signed his one-year, $27.3 million franchise tender on April 29 but was absent from the team's first voluntary workouts afterward. Prescott, who previously played under the franchise tag twice before signing a long-term extension with Dallas in 2021, said he fully supports Pickens' approach.
“I've just showed George my support,” he said. “The guy that I know George is, obviously he signed the tag, so when he has to be there and ready to play, he's going to be there. He's a hell of a talent. We've thrown this offseason, so I'm comfortable with where he's at and I'm excited for when he can get in the building and get rolling.”
Prescott added that the two have already worked together extensively this offseason.
“As much as needed,” he said regarding their throwing sessions. “No different than any past offseason.”
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Under NFL rules, Pickens is not required to attend team activities until mandatory minicamp begins June 16. The Cowboys will hold organized team activities beginning June 1, but those sessions remain voluntary.
Dallas publicly confirmed before the NFL Draft that they do not plan to negotiate a multiyear extension with Pickens before the July 15 deadline for tagged players. Executive vice president Stephen Jones informed Pickens' agent, David Mulugheta, that contract talks would not occur this offseason. However, owner Jerry Jones stated in March that the Cowboys still view Pickens as part of the franchise's long-term plans.
Pickens reached a new level this past season after arriving from the Pittsburgh Steelers. He finished with 93 receptions, 1,429 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns while earning his first Pro Bowl selection. Injuries at times forced him into Dallas's No. 1 receiver role alongside CeeDee Lamb, and his production helped strengthen the Cowboys passing attack.
Having gone through contract disputes himself, Prescott understood the issue from a personal perspective. The quarterback became the first player in Dallas history to receive the franchise tag twice before eventually securing a long-term deal. He advised Pickens earlier this offseason to “bet on yourself,” and Pickens responded by signing the tender while preparing for another prove-it season with the Cowboys.
The Dallas Cowboys continue to back wide receiver George Pickens despite ongoing discussion surrounding his franchise-tag situation. Quarterback Dak Prescott addressed the situation Thursday during the team's annual charity home run derby, where the Cowboys raised $80,000 for the Salvation Army, and made it clear he is not concerned about Pickens missing voluntary offseason workouts.