For the first time since the end of the 2024 season, and the first time under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer, the Dallas Cowboys were back on the practice field in front of the media on Tuesday.
Here are some of the news and notes coming from Tuesday’s OTA practice:
NO MICAH PARSONS
All-Pro pass rusher Micah Parsons, who is entering the fifth and final year of his rookie contract, was not in attendance at the first round of OTA practices available to the media, but Schottenheimer said Parsons was there on Monday.
It is important to remember that OTAs are voluntary.
"He's been in and out some,” Schottenheimer told the media, noting he had lunch with him on Monday. “When he's here he's been great. It's all voluntary. Some guys come to meetings, some guys come to practice. Some guys are just here getting treatment. It's not just specific to Micah, but all the guys."
DAK PRESCOTT MOVING AROUND
Dak Prescott was back on the field after a hamstring injury in 2024 required surgery and ended his season prematurely.
Prescott wasn’t just a stationary quarterback during drills. He was seen moving around a bit, and rolling out a couple of times. He appeared comfortable moving around, and didn’t seem limited by the lighter work of the OTA practice.
GEORGE PICKENS’ DEBUT
WR George Pickens made his debut in front of the media, donning his new #13 Cowboys jersey.
Pickens worked alongside WR coach Junior Adams and CeeDee Lamb for much of practice, and spent time chatting with Dak Prescott between reps with the team.
UPBEAT AND ENERGETIC
There was a lot of positive energy and enthusiasm throughout the practice. Players and coaches alike were chirping during some of the 11 on 11 drills. Rookie Edge Donovan Ezeiruaku was upbeat throughout, and dancing during stretching. Pickens was jubilant as he escorted KaVontae Turpin to the end zone after a catch and run during the team drills.
It seemed like a group of players that was eager to get back on the football field.
PLAY OF THE DAY
The play of the day belonged to rookie LB Shemar James, who made a nice play in zone to step in front of a Joe Milton pass for an interception, and what would have been an easy pick-six.