Cowboys' Brian Schottenheimer Makes Feelings on George Pickens Clear After Absences

The Dallas Cowboys have seen mostly positive momentum this offseason, except for George Pickens' holdout over a one-year, $27.3 million franchise tag. After a 93-catch, 1,426-yard season in 2025, Pickens skipped voluntary offseason programs but appeared at the mandatory minicamp. Coach Brian Schottenheimer responded with calm optimism, calling Pickens' late arrival 'normal' for pro sports and saying the team would manage his workload as he negotiates his future in Dallas. The franchise tag keeps a close watch on the star receiver while the Cowboys continue to rebuild around Dak Prescott and a revived defense.