Brian Schottenheimer addresses George Pickens situation before Cowboys minicamp

The Dallas Cowboys expect George Pickens to play a major role in their offense this season. That is why his absence from organized team activities has become one of the team's most closely watched offseason developments.

Pickens did not participate in Tuesday's voluntary OTA session at The Star. While voluntary workouts do not require attendance, his absence drew attention because Dallas acquired him to strengthen a passing attack already built around quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.

Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer did little to change expectations about Pickens' arrival. He said he expects the receiver to report next week when the team's mandatory minicamp begins on June 16.

"I’m thrilled when George comes walking through these doors, hopefully next week, and I expect to see him next week," Schottenheimer said. "What he can do for this football team on the field is unmatched in a lot of regards."

The comment offered both confidence and a subtle reminder that Pickens has not yet joined the group. Until he reports, questions about his offseason participation will continue to follow the team.

That matters because Dallas is counting on Pickens to elevate an offense that already produced strong numbers last season. The Cowboys finished among the league leaders in points and passing production, yet the unit often struggled to turn drives into touchdowns.

Those issues helped shape expectations entering 2026. Dallas believes the addition of Pickens can create more problems for opposing defenses and reduce the pressure placed on Lamb.

The Cowboys remain publicly optimistic that everything will come together once the roster is fully assembled. However, that process cannot truly begin until one of their most important offseason additions is on the practice field.

For now, Dallas is looking ahead to the mandatory minicamp. If Pickens arrives as expected, the conversation will quickly shift from attendance to how dangerous the Cowboys' offense can become.

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