ESPN broadcast reveals odd explanation CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens held out on first possession

The Dallas Cowboys went three and out on their first offensive possession during Monday’s Week 11 road contest against the Las Vegas Raiders. Notably, the receiver duo of CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens watched the entire drive from the sidelines.

According to ESPN sideline reporter Lisa Salters, this was a coach’s decision from head coach Brian Schottenheimer: “It was not an injury related situation, it was strictly a coach’s decision. I asked, ‘was this punishment of some sort,’ and I was told, ‘you’ll have to address that with coach but all we can tell you is it was not injury related, it was strictly a coach’s decision.'”

Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram provided further insight on Lamb and Pickens’ absence on the first drive of the game: “As it was communicated to me, ‘they missed some things.'”

Lamb and Pickens were on the field for Dallas’ second series, which ended in a Dak Prescott fumble. The Cowboys need both wideouts on the field together, as it’s no surprise the offense runs through them.

Pickens, acquired this past offseason from the Pittsburgh Steelers, entered Monday’s game fifth in the NFL in receiving. He has hauled in a team-leading 49 passes for 764 yards and six touchdowns. Lamb, meanwhile, has appeared in just six games, sidelined earlier this season with a high ankle sprain. He has 35 receptions for 491 yards and one score.

Cowboys counting on CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens to lead offense

Lamb is under contract through the 2028 season. Pickens is scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent in 2026. Pickens said in October he “wouldn’t mind” signing a long-term deal to stay in Dallas past the 2025 season.

“I wouldn’t mind it,” Pickens said. “The guys in the locker room are super cool, the energy’s great, but like I said I always want to showcase my talents.”

Ultimately, that will be a Jerry Jones decision. Pickens knows that.

“That’s kinda up to what [Jones] wants to do,” Pickens said. “All I can do is perform at my best.”