Dallas Cowboys Executive Vice President Stephen jones clarified Monday that wide receiver George Pickens‘ first-drive benching against the Las Vegas Raiders stemmed from a separate infraction than teammate CeeDee Lamb‘s. The distinction, revealed Tuesday on 105.3 The Fan,corrects initial assumptions linking both players’ discipline to a curfew violation.
The differing reasons for the benchings-Pickens for missing a team bus, and lamb for violating curfew-highlight Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer’s commitment to consistent accountability within the team. This situation underscores the Cowboys’ emphasis on team rules and discipline, particularly as they navigate a competitive season. both players responded strongly on the field after being reinstated, contributing significantly to the Cowboys’ victory.
Jones emphasized Schottenheimer’s impartiality, stating, “He’s not going to play favorites with anybody.” He explained the timing difference was key: “One was the night before leading into the morning, and the other one was missing the buses.”
Despite speculation fueled by their close friendship, the incidents were unrelated. Jones praised Schottenheimer for his “consistent, being authentic, being genuine and doing the right thing by the team.”
Lamb and Pickens combined for 14 receptions, 210 yards, and two touchdowns in the Cowboys’ win, demonstrating their impact despite the early-game discipline.
