Cowboys Discipline Star Receiver After Unexpected Team-Bus Controversy
Cowboys Hold Firm on Discipline as George Pickens Gets Benched for Missing Team Bus
This week, the Dallas Cowboys sent a very clear message about internal discipline when star wideout George Pickens was removed from the opening series against the Las Vegas Raiders for a surprisingly basic mistake: he missed the team bus. According to Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones, this wasn’t something the organization was willing to overlook.
Pickens wasn’t the only player disciplined. CeeDee Lamb — his close friend and one of the team’s biggest stars — was also benched for the opening drive, though the reasons were different. While Pickens’ issue was strictly the bus, Lamb told reporters his benching stemmed from breaking the team’s curfew after grabbing dinner and a few drinks at the casino the night before.
It’s clear head coach Brian Schottenheimer and the Cowboys’ leadership wanted to establish one non-negotiable principle: no special treatment for anyone, no matter how big the name. Stephen Jones reinforced that message, saying, “He (Schottenheimer) doesn’t favor anybody.”
Jerry Jones also weighed in, delivering a blunt reminder that road trips are business trips — not parties. He admitted he has no issue with players enjoying themselves in the right setting, but not when it affects accountability and preparation. “This is work — this is the job,” Jones said, underscoring that responsibility comes first.
Interestingly, both Pickens and Lamb responded with big performances despite their early punishment. Against the Raiders, Pickens exploded for 9 catches, 144 yards, and a touchdown, while Lamb added 5 receptions for 66 yards and a score. Stephen Jones even praised Schottenheimer’s decision, calling it an example of consistency and doing what’s right for the team.
This situation wasn’t just a minor lesson for Pickens — it was a loud reminder for the entire roster. The Cowboys are entering a critical stretch of the season, and leadership seems determined to reinforce discipline: no exceptions, no “star exemptions,” and no personal priorities over team obligations.
By handling the situation firmly and fairly, the Cowboys sent a direct message: every player, whether a rookie or a franchise star, must put the team first. And if maintaining that standard helps Dallas stay locked in and unified down the stretch, then benching Pickens may end up being one of the most important decisions of the week.
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