Cowboys Receiver Pickens Attends Mandatory Minicamp After Skipping Voluntary Workouts

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens attended the team's mandatory minicamp on Tuesday after skipping the voluntary portion of the offseason program. Pickens told reporters he plans to focus on football first and let his agent handle contract matters later. He said the franchise tag does not change his approach to the upcoming season.

Before the draft, the Cowboys decided against negotiating a long-term contract and placed Pickens on the $27.3 million franchise tag. Owner and general manager Jerry Jones and coach Brian Schottenheimer discussed the decision with Pickens prior to him signing the tender. Pickens said he did not press for an explanation and viewed the conversation as important for transparency.

Schottenheimer said he never doubted Pickens would report for minicamp. He noted the importance of Pickens showing commitment to teammates and the team's Super Bowl goals. Schottenheimer added that discussions with Pickens focused on personal matters, including the receiver's interest in golf during the offseason.