Dallas Cowboys rocked as NFL disciplines several stars in shocking development

Dallas Cowboys’ dominant 44-22 victory over the Washington Commanders in Week 7 should have been the perfect momentum boost ahead of their next challenge. But instead, the franchise now finds itself dealing with an unexpected controversy — the NFL’s disciplinary action against one of their brightest stars, George Pickens, and several other players.

NFL drops the hammer on Cowboys star George Pickens

Following his standout performance against Washington, Pickens made headlines for all the wrong reasons. The NFL has officially fined the Dallas Cowboys wide receiver $11,593 for “taunting” and “unsportsmanlike conduct” during the second quarter of the game.

With just 31 seconds left before halftime, Dak Prescott connected with Pickens on a stunning 44-yard pass that electrified the crowd. However, George Pickens’ post-play celebration quickly drew attention — he reportedly screamed in Marshon Lattimore’s face and bumped chests with the Commanders cornerback after being pushed out of bounds.

While referees chose not to flag the incident during the game, the league’s post-review determined it violated the code of sportsmanship. According to the NFL’s official statement, these fines are part of broader measures to “protect players from unnecessary risk and preserve competitive balance and game integrity.”

More Dallas Cowboys players face disciplinary action

Pickens wasn’t the only Cowboy caught in the NFL’s disciplinary net. Several teammates also received fines for similar or related infractions stemming from the same matchup.

Brock Hoffman was fined $6,111 for taunting and unsportsmanlike behavior.

Javonte Williams was handed a $16,830 fine for “use of the helmet” and “unnecessary roughness.”

Donovan Wilson faced the steepest penalty — $23,186 — for “use of the helmet” violations.

These penalties come as the Dallas Cowboys prepare for their Week 8 road clash against the Denver Broncos, a game that already carries significant pressure as the team sits at 3-3-1.

Fines to support a worthy cause

Despite the financial blow, the fines will ultimately serve a greater purpose. The NFL confirmed that all proceeds from such penalties are donated to the Professional Athletes Foundation and the NFL Foundation, helping to support the health, safety, and welfare of players and youth football programs nationwide.

As the Dallas Cowboys look to maintain focus and momentum, the timing of these disciplinary measures poses an additional challenge. For George Pickens, who has been a crucial weapon in Prescott’s offense, this incident is a reminder of how quickly celebrations can turn costly in the NFL’s watchful environment.