Head coach Brian Schottenheimer unveiled the Cowboys’ leadership council for the 2026 season on Thursday, but one notable omission became a talking point. And wide receiver George Pickens is not on the list. That prompted NFL analyst Skip Bayless to question what the decision could mean for his standing with the team despite owner Jerry Jones‘ public support.
In his opening speech at the 2026 training camp, Jones sent a clear message about George Pickens’ future. Still, for many senior NFL analysts like Skip Bayless, the Dallas Cowboys might throw a curveball for the star wide receiver.
The Cowboys’ leadership council features quarterback Dak Prescott, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, tight end Jake Ferguson, left guard Tyler Smith, rookie guard Tyler Booker, running back Javonte Williams, defensive linemen Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark and Rashan Gary, safety Jalen Thompson, and punter Bryan Anger.
Shortly after the announcement, Bayless shared his reaction on X, writing, “Cowboys announce this season’s 10-player leadership council, including CeeDee and Jake Ferguson. No George Pickens. Another message sent … and yet another reason to potentially pout.”
Bayless interpreted Pickens’ exclusion as another signal from the organization, though neither Schottenheimer nor the Cowboys suggested that the decision carried any statement about the receiver.
The real story behind George Pickens’ snub and contract-year dynamics
The omission stands out because the Cowboys expect Pickens to play a major role in their offense this season. They acquired him in a trade from the Pittsburgh Steelers last year, and they project the former second-round pick to complement Lamb and give Prescott another dynamic downfield target in his second year in Dallas.
However, general manager Jones has repeatedly expressed confidence in Pickens since the trade, emphasizing the receiver’s talent and the Cowboys’ belief in his fit within the offense. “I hope that he comes out here and is the most prolific, successful receiver in the NFL this year,” Jones said on July 29. “And how would you like to be a free agent and with his credentials and step out there and have a year like that? I wish all of that because if that happens, that (would be) good for us.”
Jones added, “He’s a valued part of our aspirations and our potential success. The combination that he has with the other talent on the team, I think will make you feel pretty positive about what we’ve got a chance to do.”
When it comes to the leadership councils, however, teams typically build them around players who have established themselves within the locker room over multiple seasons. Veterans and longtime contributors often receive those roles, which makes it less surprising that the Cowboys did not include Pickens, who is entering his first season with Dallas.
Actually, Pickens’ contract situation drives much of the speculation surrounding him. The former second-round pick enters the final year of his rookie deal and will become an unrestricted free agent after this season unless Dallas signs him to an extension. If the two sides fail to reach an agreement, the Cowboys could apply the franchise tag. It would cost more than $32 million for the franchise to keep him for another year while they continue negotiations.
With Pickens expected to play a key role in the offense, his performance this season and the Cowboys’ salary cap plans will likely determine whether he earns a long-term deal in Dallas.
Whether Bayless’ interpretation proves accurate remains to be seen. For now, Pickens’ focus will likely remain on earning trust through his performance on the field as he prepares for his first regular season in a Cowboys uniform.