Stephen Jones Furious, Fines Star CB $500K - Cowboys Fans Say “Cut Him Already!”

The Dallas Cowboys have made it clear: when you're paid like a cornerstone, you're expected to act like one.

That expectation includes being present — especially during rehab.

A recent decision by one of the team’s defensive stars to conduct his recovery away from the facility has sparked tension inside the organization. The move violated a clause in his contract, resulting in a $500,000 deduction from his salary.

But the issue wasn’t just financial.

Team vice president Stephen Jones didn’t hide his disappointment. Speaking publicly, he suggested that had the player stayed and trained in-house, his progress might be further along. “We're paying a price too,” he said, “because we felt like he’d be further along had he done his rehab here.”

Trevon Diggs reportedly felt “hurt” by the team’s penalty: "I was injured, stuck in bed, and they fined me $500K. I thought they were family, but all they did was hurt me", but Jones stood firm. “It’s in every contract. When we pay significant money, we expect leadership. We expect them to be here.”

The contract clause required participation in at least 84% of team-organized spring activities. By choosing to rehab privately in South Florida, the cornerback failed to meet that threshold.

Trevon Diggs, a cornerstone of the Cowboys defense, fresh off a $97 million extension signed in 2023.

Diggs, who returned from a 2023 injury to play in 11 games last season, logged 42 tackles and two interceptions. Two years removed from his All-Pro 11-pick season, expectations are high for his full return.

But the Cowboys’ message is clear: next time, they’d prefer their star rehabs closer to home.