The Dallas Cowboys have their star receiver back in the building, but don't expect to see George Pickens running routes with the first team just yet. After signing his $27.3 million franchise tag, Pickens reported to mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, and head coach Brian Schottenheimer wasted no time outlining a careful plan for his return.
Schottenheimer told reporters that Pickens will take part in individual and mock drills but will sit out team sessions. “Keep him out of team and let him watch,” Schottenheimer said. “He’ll be Coach Pickens today in team.” That tongue-in-cheek nickname reflects the team's strategy: ease the Pro Bowl wideout back into the flow without risking any setbacks.
Pickens had been absent from voluntary workouts and OTAs while his contract situation lingered. But Schottenheimer said he always expected Pickens to show up for mandatory camp and was “thrilled” to be proven right. “He’s obviously a great athlete, but we’ll be smart,” the coach explained. “There’s plenty of things he can do from the mocks to the walk-throughs and get him back into the system.”
The decision to keep Pickens limited isn't a reflection of any concern about his conditioning or commitment. Schottenheimer emphasized caution over worry. “If we’re cautious it’s just because we want to be cautious. It’s not because we don’t think he’s not working. We think he’s putting in the work and preparing to have a hell of a year.”
Pickens is coming off a career-best season, hauling in 93 catches for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns—all personal highs. That performance earned him his first Pro Bowl nod and made him the centerpiece of Dallas’ passing attack. The franchise tag ensures he'll be on the field in 2026, but the long-term future remains uncertain. The two sides failed to reach a multiyear deal this offseason, leaving the door open for more negotiations later.
For now, the focus is on getting Pickens up to speed without pushing too hard. Schottenheimer, who recently sold his home to move closer to the practice facility, is all-in on building chemistry. “There’s plenty he can do,” Schottenheimer reiterated. “He’ll be fine.”
The Cowboys are hoping that a smart, steady ramp-up will pay dividends come September. Meanwhile, fans can expect Pickens to be a vocal presence on the sideline—at least for today.
