Cowboys’ Pickens Benched for Missing Team Bus Before Raiders Game

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens was benched for the first series of the game against the Las Vegas Raiders on November 17, 2025, due to disciplinary reasons linked to missing the team bus. This decision was confirmed by Stephen Jones, the Cowboys’ co-owner and chief operating officer, during an interview on 105.3 The Fan.

Pickens, who leads the Cowboys in receiving yards, was not present on either of the two buses transporting the team to Allegiant Stadium. In contrast, his fellow receiver CeeDee Lamb was aboard the second bus. The exact means by which Pickens arrived at the stadium remains unclear.

Jones emphasized the importance of discipline within the team, stating, “He’s not going to play favorites with anybody. He felt very strongly that, that was part of it.” He pointed out that while many might assume that both players’ friendship would protect them from disciplinary actions, their circumstances were notably different.

This incident marks the first time team officials have publicly addressed Pickens’ disciplinary issues, which have included tardiness to several meetings throughout the current season. Despite these challenges, Pickens has been a standout performer, ranking second in the NFL for receiving yards and tied for third in touchdowns.

In the game against the Raiders, Pickens managed to catch nine passes for 144 yards and a touchdown, although he received a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct for celebrating by jumping on the goalpost. This was his second consecutive game receiving such a penalty, bringing his total to four accepted penalties this season, which ties him for third among wide receivers in the league.

The Cowboys organization has expressed willingness to negotiate a long-term contract with Pickens when he becomes a free agent next spring. Team owner and general manager Jerry Jones also voiced concerns about players’ behavior leading up to games. In a separate interview, he remarked, “I do have a problem with players partying the night before a game,” reinforcing the team’s commitment to professionalism.

Despite the off-field issues surrounding him, Pickens remains a valuable asset to the Cowboys, contributing significantly on the field. The team’s dynamic, influenced by both strong friendships and strict adherence to rules, continues to be a focal point as they navigate the remainder of the NFL season. The Cowboys’ management hopes that players will take the lessons from this incident to heart as they move forward in their campaign.