Nobody's Talking About George Pickens' OTA Absence, And It's A $27.3 Million Problem For Dallas

Alright, folks, can we talk about what's actually going down in the NFL right now? Everyone's buzzing about their own teams, but there's a quiet storm brewing in Dallas with George Pickens that nobody's really shouting about, and it's got a $27.3 million price tag. The Cowboys slapped him with the franchise tag in late April, making it crystal clear they weren't doing a long-term deal, but also didn't want to trade him. Now, he's not even showing up to voluntary OTAs, and frankly, that's a red flag waving bigger than the Texas state flag.

The Dallas Dilemma: Where's Pickens?

Look, you sign a tag for that much cash, you'd think you'd be there, right? Pickens has been radio silent, letting his actions do the talking, and those actions include being absent from voluntary practices. Cowboys GM Jerry Jones, EVP Stephen Jones, and even HC Brian Schottenheimer have all been dropping hints they expect him to just play out 2026 under the tag. But here's the kicker: his absence? It might just be about reducing injury risk ahead of *another* contract year. Think about that for a second. The guy's playing for his next big payday, and Dallas just dropped $27.3 million on a guy who isn't even showing up when he doesn't have to. What does that tell you about commitment?

League Shake-Ups: Conner's Fallout and Dulcich's Big Shot

And while that drama unfolds in Dallas, there are other situations simmering. Down in Arizona, James Conner, who's been their workhorse for half a decade, is looking like he's on the outs. The man's coming off a season-ending foot and ankle injury from Week 3 last year, took a pay cut in March, and then the Cardinals went out and signed Tyler Allgeier and drafted Jeremiyah Love. Now, suddenly, Conner's limited to side work at OTAs and potentially looking at being the third-string back. Sure, he's showing up, which tells you he's not entirely done with the desert, but with trade rumors swirling, you gotta wonder if this is the end of an era. It’s a tough business, man. Then there's Miami, where Greg Dulcich is trying to make some noise. He's reportedly building chemistry with QB Malik Willis during OTAs, even saying he's impressed with Willis's vision and arm strength. He signed a one-year deal for $3.25 million, with $2.9 million guaranteed, after averaging a modest 2.9 catches for 37.2 yards over the final nine games of 2025. With only 67 catches in 31 games in his career, and other TEs on the roster only combining for 24 receptions total, he's the clear favorite for passing-down work. Rookie Will Kacmarek is there too, but he's expected to be more of a blocker. So, Dulcich has a real shot to step up, but it's a "prove it" situation on a small deal, which isn't exactly screaming superstar. So yeah, while our Hawks are grinding and putting in the work, these are the kinds of stories that shape the league, and honestly, can make or break teams down the line. It's early in the season, but these player situations, these contract squabbles, these injury recoveries? They're setting the stage for what we're gonna see when the real battles start. Keep your eyes peeled, 12s, because the NFL never sleeps, and every single move matters, even the quiet ones!

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