George Pickens Signed For $27.3 Million With Dallas, So Why Is He Still Ghosting Their OTAs?

Alright 12s, buckle up! While we're all dreaming of Lumen Field roaring this fall, the rest of the league is doing some wild stuff. And George Pickens, over in Dallas? Man, what a mess! The dude took $27.3 million for his franchise tag back in late April, but guess what? He's a total no-show for voluntary OTAs. You read that right. He signed the big check, but he's nowhere to be seen on the field right now.

The $27.3 Million No-Show In Dallas

Can you believe this? Pickens hasn't been present for voluntary practices, and Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram confirmed it. Sure, he's "in communication" with the Cowboys, and he's expected back for mandatory minicamp June 16-18. But come on, you ink a deal worth that much after your team publicly states they won't give you a long-term contract and don't want to trade you, and then you just... don't show up? Jerry Jones, Stephen Jones, and Brian Schottenheimer all pretty much hinted they expect him to play out 2026 under the tag, no issues. Pickens himself hasn't said much, letting that signed tag do all the talking. But if you ask me, this "reducing injury risk" excuse for skipping voluntary workouts before *another* contract year just screams bad vibes. This whole situation is pure drama, and frankly, it's wild how Dallas is handling it.

Arizona's RB Room Is A Wild West For James Conner

Meanwhile, down in Arizona, things aren't looking much better for James Conner. Our guy is coming off a season-ending foot and ankle injury from Week 3 last year, and now he's mostly limited to side work with trainers during OTAs, per Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic. Remember when he was the starter for half a decade? Wild. Now, after accepting a pay cut in March, then seeing the Cardinals sign Tyler Allgeier and then draft Jeremiyah Love? Conner might be looking at being the number three back. Ouch. While trade rumors are definitely swirling, at least he's actually showing up for voluntary workouts. That's a clear signal he hasn't completely slammed the door on Arizona. Still, a tough spot for a veteran.

Dulcich Looks Like The Lone Bright Spot In Miami's TE Room

Over in Miami, Greg Dulcich is trying to make some noise. He's reportedly building chemistry with QB Malik Willis during OTAs, according to Omar Kelly of the Miami Herald. Dulcich even told reporters he's impressed by Willis' vision and arm strength. Now, usually, that's just "typical positive chatter" this time of year, but honestly, there might be something real here. Miami's other tight ends combined for a measly 24 receptions in the NFL. Dulcich? He's got 67 catches in 31 games, making him the absolute clear favorite for passing-down work. They re-signed him in March to a one-year, $3.25 million contract, $2.9 million guaranteed, after he averaged 2.9 catches for 37.2 yards over the final nine games of 2025. Rookie Will Kacmarek, a third-round pick, could get playing time, but he's probably more of a blocker. So yeah, for Willis, Dulcich is the guy. So what does this all mean for us? While other teams are sorting out their messy player dynamics and contract sagas, we're here, focused on our own. Whether it's catching the Mariners at T-Mobile Park or getting ready for Mike Macdonald's Seahawks to hit Lumen Field, we know our teams handle business. But it's always worth keeping an eye on the league, right? What do you think, 12s? Are these teams making smart moves, or are they just asking for more drama? Let's get hyped for what's coming next for *our* teams!

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.