We know Pickens is locked in for the 2026 season, but given he is yet to show up at The Star, do the Cowboys actually know he's doing all the right things?
George Pickens continues to be the main headline for the Dallas Cowboys this offseason, and that is despite his future being sorted for 2026.
But with Pickens not seen at OTAs at The Star, which is neither here nor there as it is voluntary, some are wondering exactly when No. 3 will make an appearance at the offseason workouts.
June 16 is the first big checkpoint, given it is mandatory minicamp, so if Pickens doesn't appear, he is subject to fines.
We have heard all offseason about Pickens working out with Dak Prescott and spending time with CeeDee Lamb, but beyond that, everything George is doing is unknown.
With the Cowboys now beginning their offseason work, Pickens is missing practices that could be seen as crucial in building on the chemistry from last season.
Yes, they are voluntary, but Dak and CeeDee have been there. So why not Pickens?
With George not in attendance, he's missing the chance to build camaraderie with his teammates, and for head coach Brian Schottenheimer, Pickens' teammates have to wonder whether he's doing everything he can to be the best version of himself.
"This time of year, where these guys are training, the workouts are a little bit longer," Schottenheimer said. "It's actually more about the strength and weight room program than even football, quite honestly, working through Phase 1 and Phase 2.
"I've always believed this, and this has got nothing to do with a single player, how do you prove to your teammates that you're doing everything in your power to be the best version of yourself if they don't see you doing it? I have no question George is preparing, just like I had no questions what Micah was doing or whoever."
It is an interesting thread to pull.
Yes, we have confidence that Pickens is doing all the right things, but the Cowboys aren't exactly seeing it. So, there is a lot of faith built into it.
We will get a good idea of the offseason Pickens has had when/if he shows up to mandatory minicamp, and we can see how he moves, his connection with Dak, and everything in between.
The good thing is we haven't heard a peep from George. It's been radio silence, which is a nice change of pace for a Dallas offseason, but it could get loud once June 16 rolls around.
And it will be then that Pickens' teammates will be able to tell whether he's done everything he can to be the best version of himself in the 2026 season.
