Dallas Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed he expects Pro Bowl wide receiver George Pickens to attend the team's mandatory minicamp from June 16-18, even though Pickens has skipped all voluntary workouts this offseason. Schottenheimer emphasized that Pickens 'misses his teammates' and that the organization 'loves him,' suggesting the absence stems from contract matters rather than personal issues.

Pickens signed the $27.3 million franchise tag tender earlier this offseason after the Cowboys announced they would not pursue a long-term extension. With the July 15 deadline approaching for a potential deal, Dallas appears committed to keeping Pickens on the tag while other receivers like Drake London and Christian Watson secured extensions elsewhere. The team has until that date to negotiate a long-term contract before Pickens must play the 2026 season under the franchise designation.

In his first season with Dallas following a trade from Pittsburgh, Pickens posted career-high numbers with 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. Schottenheimer acknowledged that missing voluntary work limits the 'connection piece' with quarterback Dak Prescott, though he believes Pickens is preparing diligently. The coach compared the situation to Micah Parsons' similar absence last year during his own contract negotiations.

This minicamp attendance represents Pickens' first step toward rejoining team activities, but his limited participation could impact chemistry development with Prescott ahead of training camp. The franchise tag arrangement means Pickens will earn significant money while potentially playing without long-term security, creating an unusual dynamic for a player coming off a career season.