The Dallas Cowboys' 2025 training camp erupts with scuffles involving CeeDee Lamb, but DE Sam Williams' 'hungry' return is the talk of Oxnard. Read more.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
After three days of sparks flying, fists thrown, and jaw-dropping plays, the Dallas Cowboys finally took a moment to breathe. The team had a scheduled day off on Friday, a much-needed pause following an explosive start to training camp in Oxnard that saw multiple on-field scuffles and set a tone of fierce competition for the 2025 season.
That guy is hungry.
The intensity in Oxnard reached a boiling point early this week. Tensions flared in separate incidents, most notably a scuffle between star receiver CeeDee Lamb and Kemon Hall, and another altercation involving Marques Bell and Troy Pride. The chippiness prompted Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer to address the team directly about toeing the line between aggression and recklessness. While fans love the passion, the coaching staff is clearly focused on channeling that energy into disciplined football, not post-whistle penalties.
Not all the intensity was negative. Defensive end Sam Williams has been a force of nature since returning from his recent injury, flying around the field with what coaches and teammates are calling 'eye-opening intensity.' His high-energy performance has been a major positive, with one observer noting, 'That guy is hungry.' Williams' powerful return is a fantastic sign for a defensive line looking to build on its depth and create havoc this season.
Beyond the headlines, roster spots are on the line. The first week has already produced some surprises, with reports of a lesser-known rookie consistently standing out in drills. While the big names draw the cameras, these under-the-radar performances are what make training camp crucial. The real evaluation, however, begins Sunday with the first padded practice, where the battles in the trenches will truly take shape. We're also keeping an eye on right tackle Terence Steele, who missed Thursday's practice with a minor ankle injury but is expected back soon.
This intense camp is the necessary preparation for a grueling 2025 schedule. While the Cowboys currently sit at 0-0 atop the NFC East, the road ahead is daunting. The division-rival Eagles and Commanders are coming off dominant 14-3 and 12-5 seasons, respectively, promising a tight race. With high-profile prime time games against the Eagles, Giants, and Packers looming, this team needs to be battle-tested. The work being put in now will pay off when the lights are brightest.
The first week was just the appetizer. With the day off in the rearview mirror, the real test begins Sunday when the pads come on. Will the intensity translate into disciplined execution, or will tempers flare again? All eyes are on Oxnard as the Cowboys gear up for the first real collisions of the 2025 season.
