Dak Prescott isn’t waiting for training camp to build a connection with his most explosive weapon. While attending the Children’s Cancer Fund 36th Anniversary Gala on Friday, the Cowboys quarterback confirmed he is already hitting the field with wide receiver George Pickens. This marks their first full offseason together after Pickens joined the roster last year, and the early returns are promising.
“We’re just working, no different than I have any offseason,” Prescott told reporters. “George has been active, he’s showed up, and he’s looked great. I’m super excited about what we’re building.”
The atmosphere at the gala was light, but the subtext of Prescott’s comments carries heavy weight for the 2026 season. After a year of learning each other’s tendencies on the fly, the duo is now focused on the fine-tuning that turns big plays into consistent scoring drives. Seeing them together this early suggests a shared urgency to elevate a Dallas offense that already ranks among the league’s most dangerous.
While the on-field work looks smooth, the front office still has a deadline looming. The Cowboys placed the franchise tag on Pickens earlier this spring, securing his services for 2026 at a cost of $27.29 million. Both sides have until July 15 to hammer out a long-term extension. Despite the inevitable noise surrounding a high-profile tag, Prescott is staying out of the negotiations.
“I’m leaving all the contract talks to the front office,” Prescott said. “My job is to make sure we’re ready when the whistle blows.”
— Dak Prescott at the Children’s Cancer Fund Gala
Cowboys chief operating officer Stephen Jones recently clarified that Dallas hasn’t received any trade inquiries regarding Pickens. The team appears fully committed to keeping the Pro Bowl receiver in silver and blue for the long haul. Owner Jerry Jones echoed this sentiment at the league meetings in March, stating the club has “long-term plans” for the young star.
The Cowboys haven’t been quiet this spring. The front office has been aggressive in surrounding Prescott with veteran talent and defensive depth. Re-signing running back Javonte Williams to a three-year deal was a major win for the backfield, providing a physical presence to balance the air attack. On the defensive side, the trade for Rashan Gary and the signing of safety Jalen Thompson have retooled a unit that looks faster and more disciplined than it did a year ago.
| Player | Position | Transaction Type |
|---|---|---|
| George Pickens | WR | Franchise Tag ($27.29M) |
| Javonte Williams | RB | Re-signed (3-Year Deal) |
| Rashan Gary | DE | Trade Acquisition |
| Jalen Thompson | S | Free Agent Signing |
With the 2026 NFL Draft kicking off this Thursday in Pittsburgh, Prescott is eager to see which new faces join the locker room. The Cowboys hold two high picks, and rumors are swirling about potential movement. The energy in the building is palpable as scouts finalize the big board.
“I expect two great draft picks,” Prescott said. “It’s always an exciting night. I don’t know if there’s movement coming—that would be cool—but I know we’ll add some great players.”
The draft represents the final piece of the puzzle for a roster that looks ready to contend. Whether Dallas moves up to snag another playmaker or stays put to bolster the trenches, the goal remains clear: Super Bowl or bust in 2026.
