Brian Schottenheimer Addresses George Pickens' Absence from OTAs

<p>George Pickens is not participating in the Dallas Cowboys' voluntary offseason practices during the opening week. Coach Brian Schottenheimer stated that the receiver is "taking care of his business" and that their communication has been positive.</p><p>Pickens signed a $27.3 million franchise tag over a month ago but has not attended the team activities. He is not required to report until the mandatory minicamp scheduled for June 16-18.</p><p>Schottenheimer mentioned, "Communicated with (Pickens) yesterday. He's got a football camp this weekend that he's doing. So communication is good, and as you guys know it's voluntary and he's taking care of his business."</p><p>Pickens waited two months before signing the one-year contract, which is significantly higher than his previous four-year rookie contract earnings.</p><p>Prior to the draft in April, Pickens informed the Cowboys of his intention to sign the franchise tag, leading to speculation about a potential trade. However, the Cowboys clarified they had no plans to trade him, and he signed the tag shortly after.</p><p>Acquired last year from Pittsburgh, Pickens had a successful season, achieving career highs in catches (93), receiving yards (1,429), and touchdowns (nine) as part of one of the NFL's top offenses.</p><p>CeeDee Lamb, who is entering the second year of a $136 million, four-year contract, ranks fourth among NFL receivers with an average annual value of $34 million.</p><p>Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones has indicated that the team has long-term plans for Pickens, who has been training with quarterback Dak Prescott during the offseason.</p><p>Schottenheimer commented, "I'm not sure exactly what they do. You guys know Dak does a great job working with all the guys, whether they’re here, whether it’s this time of year, whether it is in the summer, they always go someplace. They’ll go someplace this summer and train and throw, and it’s a chance for them to develop their timing."</p>