Cowboys OC Dismisses George Pickens’ Combative Behavior Rumors Amidst OTAs Absence: “He’s Always Smiling”
George Pickens' character was being torn apart when he did not participate in the Dallas Cowboys' mandatory OTAs.
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George Pickens' character called into question (Image via Underdog/X)
The Dallas Cowboys are struggling to get George Pickens to participate in their OTAs, which is leaving them with less time to fine-tune the offense before training camp starts.
The wideout has been largely a no-show ever since contract negotiations went south. He was demanding WR1 money, but Jerry Jones felt it was better to wait. After all, the Georgia Bulldog was a major headache for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Even though the Cowboys reaped the benefits of his talent last season, there were a couple of instances that left everyone wondering whether he was worth a long-term deal.
No wonder Jones handed him a non-exclusive tag, hoping that either the receiver understands he is not in a position to place demands, or get some picks in exchange if a trade were to happen.
Since the latter situation did not happen, the receiver is in a tight spot. That could be why George Pickens has not reported for work, even though he has passed his physical.
He is very rarely in a bad mood. He is happy. He loves football. He’s always smiling and laughing… I think he felt comfortable in being himself in Dallas.
Cowboys OC Klayton Adams said on NFL Spotlight
This was the man who spent a lot of time with the 25-year-old and wanted to put this out there to those who are spreading rumors about Pickens’ questionable behavior.
#Cowboys OC Klayton Adams says the perception of George Pickens doesn't match the player he's gotten to know:
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) June 16, 2026
"I actually didn't know much about him. … He is very rarely in a bad mood. He is happy. He loves football. He's always smiling and laughing." https://t.co/lO944TEZHu pic.twitter.com/oRQXcC3QuE
It seems the pass catcher loves his time in Dallas and wants to continue playing for them. It is just that sometimes contract negotiations can frustrate players, and Pickens is no different.
George Pickens reveals agent instructed him not to participate in OTAs
George Pickens has finally reported for training camp and was seen warming up wearing full gear. When it was time for him to stand in front of the reporters, they asked him all sorts of questions about his contract situation.
After confirming indirectly that he was ok with the franchise tag, reporters asked him why he chose to miss the Cowboys’ mandatory OTAs.
Like I said, my agent. I was listening to my agent. So, whatever he was saying, go, don’t go.
George Pickens replied
That means it was his agent, David Mulugheta, who was instructing him not to participate in the OTAs. It was probably a move to try to coax something out of Jerry Jones.
#Cowboys WR George Pickens says holding in was not part of the plan for mandatory camp and training camp ahead despite being just on the franchise tag. Pickens added his relationship with Cee Dee Lamb helps to make things easier. Long term stability right now is not worrisome. pic.twitter.com/BZcfIPZS1K
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) June 16, 2026
With him returning to participate in the mandatory minicamp this week, Mulugheta may have managed to get what he wanted out of the billionaire owner.
The Athletes First agent has had a tumultuous past year negotiating with Jones. Therefore, he must have felt it was important for his client, Pickens, to take a stand.
George Pickens wants to help Cowboys win Super Bowl
Amidst all the questions about George Pickens‘ franchise tag and future with the team, one reporter asked what it meant for him to not hold out for a longer deal.
What’s important to me is winning. Like I said from the beginning, I always wanna bring a Super Bowl to a group of guys that never had that feeling. That’s really the most important part to me.
George Pickens replied
Therefore, it was more important that he get back to work rather than hold out, as many players generally do when they do not get the contract they desire.
It could mean that the Alabama native is aware that he needs to do a lot more to secure that massive WR1 deal he is looking for. What better than to perform as a leading receiver?
If that can help the Cowboys win their first Super Bowl in more than three decades, rest assured, Jerry Jones will be forced to give him the money that he wants.
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