Brian Expressed Disappointment After A Rookie Arrived An Hour Late To The Opening Day of Training Camp.

Discipline comes first in Dallas, and rookie defensive lineman Tommy Akingbesota learned that the hard way this week.

The fourth-round pick out of Rutgers arrived one hour late to the Cowboys’ first official day of Training Camp, and Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer didn’t hesitate to make his disappointment known.

“Showing up late on Day 1? That’s not how we do things here,” Schottenheimer said. “If you want to wear this star, you better respect the standard.”

It wasn’t just a missed alarm. For a rookie trying to earn a roster spot, being tardy on the first day sends the wrong message—especially in a locker room full of veterans who’ve made sacrifices to be sharp and present from the jump.

Akingbesota was seen doing additional reps and conditioning drills after practice—widely interpreted as disciplinary action. While no official punishment was announced, Cowboys insiders confirmed the coaching staff had a closed-door conversation with the rookie shortly after the session.

Schottenheimer’s tone echoed what many in the organization believe: 2025 isn’t a year for excuses. With veterans like Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs setting the culture, any sign of sloppiness—rookie or not—won’t be tolerated.

Akingbesota, known for his explosiveness and upside, now faces a different kind of challenge: rebuilding trust and proving his commitment. There’s still plenty of camp left, but the message has been sent.

In Dallas, your clock better match your ambition.