The Dallas Cowboys have officially enforced a salary de-escalation clause in Trevon Diggs’ contract, reducing his 2025 base salary from $9 million to $8.5 million. The decision stems from Diggs’ choice to rehab away from the team facility in South Florida, which fell short of the participation threshold required by his contract.
Cowboys executive VP Stephen Jones emphasized that the clause was clear and mutually understood when Diggs opted not to train at the facility.
Cowboys enforce de-escalation clause to uphold contract terms and player accountability
The Cowboys routinely include de-escalation clauses in large player contracts to ensure offseason participation. While the team had the discretion to waive the penalty, they chose to enforce it in Diggs’ case, marking the first time a player has been penalized under this clause. According to his agreement, Diggs was required to be present for at least 84.375% of the offseason program to avoid the salary cut.
Trevon Diggs (NFL)Team owner Jerry Jones reinforced the organization’s stance, stating that Diggs didn’t fulfill his contractual obligation. Jones stressed the importance of setting an example, particularly for high-paid players like Diggs. By not attending rehab sessions at the facility, Diggs failed to meet expectations, prompting the team to act in accordance with the agreement and maintain consistency in how such clauses are treated.
Injury Rehab Choices Raise Concerns About Commitment, Leadership, and Long-Term Availability
Diggs is currently recovering from a chondral bone graft surgery on the same knee where he tore his ACL during the 2023 season. His decision to rehab independently has drawn criticism from within the organization, especially in light of concerns about his long-term availability. The procedure is serious and could potentially sideline him for the entire 2025 season, further complicating his value and presence on the field.
Jerry Jones expressed disappointment, highlighting the need for leadership from elite players, especially those with lucrative contracts like Diggs’ five-year, $97 million extension signed in 2023.
Drawing comparisons to former players like Deion Sanders, Jones emphasized that highly paid athletes are expected to lead by example, including showing visible commitment during the offseason. The incident underscores the team’s emphasis on presence, professionalism, and accountability.
