George Pickens suspicion confirmed as the Dallas Cowboys kick off OTAs
The Dallas Cowboys are kicking off OTAs on Monday. Even before the start of practice, though, a major George Pickens question was answered.
The Dallas Cowboys are kicking off OTAs on Monday and even before the start of practice, one of the major questions of the week was answered. And it confirms a George Pickens suspicion held by fans and media members alike.
George Pickens not present at Cowboys OTAs
Unsurprisingly, Pickens isn’t at The Star in Frisco, Texas, as of Monday morning, per Clarence Hill Jr. from DLLS Sports. Despite signing his franchise tag, the Cowboys wide receiver is skipping the voluntary practice window.
Pickens’ choice was largely expected. After all, he is seeking a long-term deal. Even if the Cowboys announced they won’t negotiate with Pickens ahead of the season, the wide receiver doesn’t have to “accept” their decision by showing up. This is a leverage play.
Though Pickens is subject to fines if he misses mandatory minicamp (starting June 16) or training camp, these are voluntary workouts. However, his decision is relevant, especially are we continue to decipher the logic behind his decision to sign the tag last month.
Pickens’ motivations remain unclear
Last week, I wrote about why Pickens’ best move could be shocking the NFL world by showing up. In short, the reasoning was all about Pickens’ best path toward becoming the league’s highest-paid receiver.
By showing up to OTAs, he could position himself in a great spot for another elite season while building chemistry with Dak Prescott. But also, Pickens’ attendance could dispel the maturity concerns stemming from his Pittsburgh days.
In all likelihood, Pickens believes he can achieve that without showing up to voluntary practices, though. So the next date to watch remains June 16 when mandatory minicamp starts.
In his first year with the Cowboys, Pickens set career highs in just about every statistical category. He caught 93 passes for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, earning him second-team All-Pro honors.
Beyond the numbers, Pickens stepped up at WR1 while star CeeDee Lamb was injured. And he showed he can play everywhere on the field, run quality routes, and get yards after the catch, putting to bed the notion that he’s only a contested catch receiver who can only be a one-trick pony outside.