Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones spoke out on Tuesday about the $500,000 salary reduction for star cornerback Trevon Diggs.
The salary penalty was a result of Diggs choosing to rehab his knee injury away from the Cowboys’ facility, a move that led to tension between the player and the team.
The Reason Behind the Salary Reduction
On an appearance on 105.3 The Fan, Jones discussed how the team docked Diggs’ salary following his decision to rehab in South Florida rather than at the Cowboys’ facility in Frisco, Texas.
The penalty was part of Diggs’ five-year, $97 million contract extension signed in 2023, which included a clause stating the team could deduct $500,000 if he missed at least 84% of the Cowboys’ organized team activities (OTAs).
“We’re paying a price, too,” Jones said. “We felt like he’d be further along had he done his rehab here. He may differ with that, but we feel strongly that he might be further along.”
Jones also emphasized that having players rehab at the team’s facilities is in the best interest of both the player and the organization, especially when they’re paid significant amounts of money.
Jones’ Opinion on Training Away from the Team
Jones made it clear that he believes players are better off training at the team facility. “I think a player is much better off training with us than he is somewhere else,” Jones said. “The discipline to come in every day and do the work is there when they’re here.”
The Cowboys executive also mentioned that this clause would continue to be included in contracts for players who are paid substantial amounts, signaling the importance of leadership and commitment to the team.
Trevon Diggs’ 2024 Season and Rehab
Diggs had a strong 2024 season, appearing in 11 games, recording 42 total tackles, and grabbing two interceptions. He missed most of the 2023 season, playing in only two games. The cornerback’s standout year came in 2021 when he recorded an impressive 11 interceptions.
While Trevon Diggs’ salary penalty has caused some tension, Stephen Jones is clear that the team’s decision is about making sure the player is prepared and committed to the team.
With the contract stipulations in place, the Cowboys will continue to expect leadership and accountability from their star players, especially when they’re paid at a high level.
