The Dallas Cowboys are looking to find a way back into the playoffs after missing it entirely in 2025. The team has been able to add some significant talent through trades and the NFL Draft. One of the more intriguing names this season will be wide receiver George Pickens. He will be entering his second season with the team, but has not agreed to a long-term extension. Let’s take a closer look at what is happening in Jerry World.
George Pickens has not appeared at the Dallas Cowboys OTAs this year
Dallas Cowboys, George Pickens
Dec 14, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens (3) warms up before a game against the Minnesota Vikings at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
While speaking to the media on Thursday, Dallas Cowboys Brian Schottenheimer confirmed that wide receiver George Pickens was not with the team.
“We haven’t discussed that, but I expect he’ll be here. I think he’s in a good spot, but I know he’s handling his business.”
Up to this point, Pickens has only missed voluntary workouts. However, the mandatory minicamp begins on June 16 so that will be something to keep an eye out for.
Pickens signed his franchise tag instead of an extension, meaning he would be subjected to fines if he does not show up to the Dallas Cowboys minicamp. He is coming off a major season as the wide receiver finished with 93 receptions on 137 targets for 1,429 yards (15.4 yards per catch) and nine receiving touchdowns. However, the Dallas Cowboys made it known that they will not be negotiating with the wide receiver for a long-term contract ahead of the July deadline, and there’s no interest in trading him away.
The Cowboys acquired Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick from the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for a 2026 third-round and 2027 fifth-round pick last offseason. According to Over The Cap, the Cowboys have just $8.1 million in available cap space, so they would need to maneuver money in order to attempt a contract extension right now. It will be intriguing to see how both sides decide to go forward with this.