Michael Irvin likes that the Dallas Cowboys are preparing for the 2026 season with less accompanying drama than usual.
The Hall of Fame wide receiver told On3's Brian Jones that the Cowboys seem more focused this offseason.
"I think right now, they're doing exactly what they need to do," Irvin said.
Irvin attributed that to avoiding another major contract saga. The Cowboys recently awarded Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb massive extensions before trading Micah Parsons last August when they failed to reach a new deal.
"Every offseason, I don't know, for as long as I can remember, at least certainly the last five, 10 years or so, this time of the year, the Cowboys have been in some kind of deep money fight with one of the key players," Irvin said. "Was it Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, Micah Parsons? Every year, you’re like, 'Come on, man. When can we have an offseason focus on winning and not focus on other things?’ This has finally been that offseason. Once your pick has signed the franchise tag, this became that offseason. You're not hearing the fight, contract talk, contract talk, contract talk. Now you can talk about winning."
What about George Pickens?
The Cowboys will hope Irvin is right about sidestepping any salary disputes this summer.
George Pickens appeared to circumvent another potential crisis by signing his $27.3 million franchise tag in April. He and the Cowboys still have until July 15 to reach a long-term extension.
Although he skipped voluntary organized team activities, Pickens reported to mandatory minicamp last month. The wide receiver dismissed any intentions of holding out of training camp if he doesn't receive a long-term deal.
"Uh, no, I'm definitely here now," Pickens said in June. "Like I said, the group of guys that's with the Cowboys kind of prevents you [from holding out]. If you know guys, and are going to guys' house[s], you're talking. I talk to Dak. I'm still throwing with Dak. He's definitely gonna make you not want to hold out."
Dallas has otherwise spent the offseason attempting to repair its defense after allowing an NFL-worst 30.1 points per game last season. In addition to acquiring linebackers Rashan Gary and Dee Winters, the Cowboys used their first-round picks on Malachi Lawrence and safety Caleb Downs.
"He's such a great leader," Irvin said of Downs. 'That’s what I like, a young leader. So yeah, with Quinnen Williams and those boys up front and that back end with Caleb Downs, I'm anxious to see them. I'm looking forward to seeing what the Cowboys do."
