FRISCO, Texas — As the Dallas Cowboys wrapped up their offseason program, quarterback Dak Prescott walked away encouraged by what he believes is a different atmosphere surrounding the team heading into training camp.
One of the biggest reasons for that optimism is the return of wide receiver George Pickens, whose presence has already made an impact throughout the locker room and on the practice field.
“He’s a guy you feel the moment he walks in the building,” Prescott said. “The energy, the excitement, the way he approaches the game—it carries over to everyone around him.”
Prescott said Pickens looked sharp during offseason work and expects the receiver to be fully ready when the Cowboys report for training camp next month. The veteran quarterback praised Pickens’ ability to create separation and his understanding of route concepts, adding that developing chemistry with him has come naturally.
“When you turn on the tape, he’s different,” Prescott said. “He understands leverage, spacing, timing, and where I expect him to be. Those things make a quarterback’s job easier.”
The Cowboys enter camp without the contract distractions that have surrounded previous offseasons. In recent years, Dallas dealt with holdouts and prolonged negotiations involving several key players. This summer, Prescott believes the focus has remained squarely on football.
“It’s the Cowboys, so I don’t know if it’s ever truly quiet,” Prescott joked. “But everybody’s attention is where it needs to be. The focus is on improving every day and getting ready to win.”
Prescott also highlighted his continued development within head coach Brian Schottenheimer’s offensive system. One area of emphasis has been operating from under center, something the quarterback believes adds versatility to the offense.
“When you can run and throw effectively from under center, it keeps defenses honest,” Prescott said. “It’s something I’ve worked hard on, and I’m always looking for ways to improve.”
Competition has also intensified on the defensive side of the ball. Prescott said new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus has brought energy and accountability, creating a competitive environment throughout offseason workouts.
“The defense is communicating well, playing with confidence, and talking a little trash,” Prescott said with a smile. “That’s what you want. Iron sharpens iron.”
The quarterback pointed to the leadership of veteran additions and the growth of younger players as signs the team is moving in the right direction. He believes the culture inside the building has strengthened significantly over the past several months.
“You can feel it,” Prescott said. “The brotherhood, the accountability, the way guys are pushing each other. Nobody is satisfied with what happened last year.”
After missing the postseason for the second consecutive season, Prescott said expectations remain high inside the organization. For him, simply reaching the playoffs is not viewed as an accomplishment but rather the starting point.
“When you’re part of a team like this, that’s the minimum expectation,” Prescott said. “We’ve got guys in this locker room who haven’t experienced playoff football yet. That’s what we’re working toward every day.”
With training camp approaching and a healthier, more unified roster taking shape, Prescott believes the Cowboys are positioned to build momentum heading into the 2026 season.
“The energy is there,” Prescott said. “Now it’s about turning that energy into results.”
