Cowboys Eye George Pickens Extension Amidst Draft Buzz

Cowboys Eye George Pickens Extension Amidst Draft Buzz

The Dallas Cowboys are in a crucial period as they look to secure their star receiver, George Pickens, for the long term. While the team has a history of getting deals done, the current situation with Pickens, who is on the franchise tag, highlights the complexities of player negotiations. Coach Brian Schottenheimer shared his insights on the team’s approach and the importance of keeping key players like Pickens in Dallas.

Schottenheimer on Pickens and Team Philosophy

Coach Brian Schottenheimer, known for his adherence to old-school coaching traditions like not wearing sunglasses indoors, expressed optimism about George Pickens’ future with the Cowboys. “We expect him to be a cowboy for a long time,” Schottenheimer stated. He recalled his first meeting with Pickens, even humorously mentioning a basketball game where he beat the receiver, cementing a connection that goes beyond the field. Schottenheimer emphasized that Pickens makes the team better and that they want to keep him around.

The conversation also touched upon the team’s draft strategy. With two first-round picks at numbers 12 and 20, the Cowboys are looking to strengthen their roster. While many anticipate defensive picks, Schottenheimer hinted that offensive additions are also possible. “We’re going to draft pure. Our guys do a great job… and yeah, you never know,” he said, referencing the team’s successful draft history, including the time CeeDee Lamb surprisingly fell to them at pick 18.

Defensive Reinforcements and Coaching Staff

The arrival of pass rusher Rashawn Gary was a significant topic. Schottenheimer, who has faced Gary for years, called him an “unbelievable” player with room to grow. The team is excited about the defensive coaching staff, led by Christian Parker, who comes from the Eagles’ defensive backs group. Parker, at 34, is seen as a vital addition, bringing connection and versatility to the defense. “He’s got great conviction in what he wants to do,” Schottenheimer noted about the young coordinator.

The team is also focused on improving their turnover margin, which was minus-9 last season. “If we don’t fix that number, then we’re we’re poised to repeat last year and we’re not going to do that,” Schottenheimer declared. He plans to emphasize ball security and disruption in drills to ensure better results.

The Pickens Contract Stalemate

However, the immediate focus remains on George Pickens. Adam Schefter provided an update, explaining that Pickens cannot report to the Cowboys facility until he signs his franchise tag. “He is not signing his franchise tag anytime soon, which means… he’s not going to be there until they have some sort of deal,” Schefter explained. He anticipates that, like many contract situations, this will likely come down to the mid-July deadline.

Mina Kimes stressed the importance of keeping Pickens in Dallas. “They got to keep him in the building,” she urged. Kimes believes Pickens is a top-tier receiver, potentially the best in this year’s draft class. With Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, she argues that retaining Pickens secures a top-five offense, even with defensive needs that can be addressed through the draft.

Draft and Other NFL News

Regarding the draft, the Cowboys hold picks 12 and 20. While defense is a priority, the possibility of drafting a receiver if one falls is still open. Elsewhere in the NFL, Clemson’s Avin Terrell aggravated a hamstring injury during his pro day, raising concerns for his draft stock. In Detroit, the Lions appear set to move Penei Sewell to left tackle following Taylor Decker’s expected departure. Meanwhile, the 49ers are patient in their pursuit of a trade for Brandon Aiyuk, aiming to get a solid offer, potentially during draft weekend.

Source: Brian Schottenheimer reveals where the Cowboys are with a George Pickens deal 👀 | NFL Live (YouTube)