A players-only meeting held by the Cowboys defense, which has since drawn criticism from Mike Tomlin, is a positive sign for the team, according to head coach Brian Schottenheimer.
The session, in which defensive players gathered without coaches, has become a point of debate around the league after Tomlin, the Pittsburgh Steelers coach, questioned the practice. Schottenheimer, however, does not see the meeting as a problem and views it as evidence that his players are taking ownership of their performance.
Schottenheimer's stance reflects a broader view within the Cowboys organization that accountability among players can complement the work done by the coaching staff. Players-only gatherings are common in the NFL and are often used to address issues in the locker room, review assignments and build cohesion on the field.
For Dallas, the defense has been under scrutiny and the meeting has become a talking point in the wider conversation about leadership and culture. Schottenheimer's comments suggest the team is comfortable with the decision and sees it as a step toward unity rather than a sign of discord.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing