Steelers Now
Former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver and current Dallas Cowboys pass catcher George Pickens is expected to be present for mandatory minicamp after being a no-show during the team’s voluntary OTA sessions.
The former second-round pick out of University of Georgia signed his franchise-tag tender worth approximately $27 million earlier this offseason, but elected not to attend voluntary workouts. However, according to Clarence Hill Jr. of DLLS Sports, a source close to Pickens indicated the star receiver is expected to report Tuesday for mandatory minicamp.
“That’s the plan, for (Pickens) to be at minicamp,” Hill Jr. said on DLLS Sports. “We don’t know what he will do, we know that the Cowboys will most likely be cautious with him.”
Pickens spent the first three seasons of his career in Pittsburgh, showcasing the potential of a true No. 1 receiver with his combination of size, athleticism, and contested-catch ability. However, recurring questions surrounding his maturity, including passive-aggressive social media activity and emotional sideline outbursts, ultimately contributed to the Steelers’ decision to move on.
Pittsburgh traded Pickens to Dallas with one year remaining on his rookie contract, receiving a third-round pick in return that was eventually used on quarterback Drew Allar. The move suggested the organization had little interest in a long-term extension, even if Pickens had remained with the team through the 2025 season.
In his first year with Dallas, Pickens delivered the breakout campaign many expected, hauling in 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. Following the career-best season, speculation quickly began about whether the Cowboys and Pickens could reach a long-term agreement.
His expected arrival at mandatory minicamp is an encouraging sign for Dallas. Had he skipped all three days of mandatory activities, Pickens could have been fined nearly $108,000 under NFL rules. While his attendance does not guarantee a future extension, it does remove a potential distraction as the Cowboys continue preparations for the upcoming season.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Cowboys Get Good News on Former Steelers WR George Pickens
