Any conflict between George Pickens and the Dallas Cowboys won’t ratchet up in intensity in the team’s last joint sessions before summer break.
The Pro Bowl wide receiver reported to the team on June 15 in advance of mandatory minicamp, according to multiple reports.
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The decision at least temporarily eases any tension between Pickens and the Cowboys after executive vice president Stephen Jones revealed in April that the organization would not negotiate a long-term deal with the receiver prior to the season. Pickens has since signed his non-exclusive franchise tender, which will pay him a fully guaranteed $27.3 million for 2026.
By signing his franchise tender, Pickens opened himself up to a fine of $107,911 had he sat out the three-day mandatory minicamp.
Cowboys made expectations clear for Pickens in minicamp
Pickens stayed away from the entire voluntary portion of the offseason program, but the Cowboys made no secret that they expected him to rejoin his teammates prior to the organization adjourning for the summer.
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“I expect he’ll be here,” Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer said on June 4. “I think he’s in a good spot, but, again, I know he’s handling his business. I know he misses his teammates, (and) we miss him, too.
“You know how we feel about him. We love him. This is just part of the business.”
Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott echoed those sentiments.
“I haven’t had any conversations, and to be honest, would love for him to be in, but even if he’s in, I doubt it’s a full, he’s going full go, jumping in the team,” Prescott said on June 9, according to the team’s official site. “I would hope not to be honest, just being protected and being smart. Just hope he gets in just to see some of the new guys, meet some of the new guys. I’m sure he’ll be here.”
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Pickens, however, remained noncommittal when asked by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram the week prior to minicamp about his plans.
George Pickens stats
After arriving via a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers last May, Pickens broke out in his fourth pro season.
He finished in the top 10 in the NFL with 93 catches (eighth), 1,429 receiving yards (third) and nine touchdowns (tied for eighth).
Those career bests earned Pickens his first Pro Bowl berth.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: George Pickens makes decision on Cowboys’ mandatory minicamp
