Behind the Scenes at Dallas Cowboys' Training Camp: Laughter, Oddities, and Team Spirit

Explore the lighter side of the Dallas Cowboys' training camp in Oxnard, featuring unique moments, player antics, and team camaraderie.

The Dallas Cowboys' summer training camp in Oxnard, California, was not just about intense drills and strategic planning. Amidst the serious preparations for the upcoming NFL season, there were plenty of moments that brought smiles and laughter to the team and fans alike. Here’s a look at some of the most memorable and quirky highlights from the camp.

Tsunami Advisory: A First for Schottenheimer

Brian Schottenheimer, the Cowboys' offensive coordinator, has seen a lot in his 26 years of NFL coaching. However, a tsunami advisory was a first. Following an earthquake off Russia's western coast, Ventura County was under a tsunami watch on July 29. Despite the initial concern, the impact near the Cowboys' camp was minimal. Schottenheimer admitted, "I was a little worried. You hear 'tsunami' and you're really worried." After confirming safety with the local police, he could finally get back to sleep.

Simba-Style Celebration

Cornerback Kaiir Elam made headlines not just for his interception during practice but for his unique celebration. After picking off a deep pass from Dak Prescott, Elam lifted a 4-year-old fan, Kenneth, over his head in a scene reminiscent of Simba in "The Lion King." The crowd and teammates cheered, making it a moment to remember. Elam joked, "Getting to Kenneth was harder than the pick. My arms ain't that long."

Pumping Up for Practice

To energize the team, assistant coaches performed skits after stretching sessions. One day, a coach dressed in a boxing robe shadowboxed to "Eye of the Tiger," while secondary coach Darian Thompson pretended to surf on a backboard. Dak Prescott even joined in, mimicking a horseback ride. The playful atmosphere helped keep spirits high.

Joe Milton III’s Backflip Talent

Backup quarterback Joe Milton III is known for his strong arm, but his backflip skills are equally impressive. Milton, who started doing backflips at age 3, shared a story about almost hitting his head on a pole during a childhood flip. His father’s encouragement, "You got it, and if you don't you ain't getting no ice cream," kept him going. His backflip after a touchdown became a viral moment.

Jerry Jones’ Music Pick

Music is a staple at Cowboys practices, usually chosen by the players. However, one day during special teams drills, the Pointer Sisters' "Slow Hand" played over the speakers, surprising everyone. Schottenheimer revealed, "It wasn't my request. Someone from very high up." That someone was none other than owner and general manager Jerry Jones, adding a touch of his personal flair to the camp.

These moments highlight the camaraderie and lighter side of the Cowboys' training camp, proving that even in the midst of intense preparation, there’s always room for fun and team bonding.

What to Read Next

Minnesota Vikings' Strategic Roster Overhaul Ahead of NFL Week 12
NFL

Minnesota Vikings' Strategic Roster Overhaul Ahead of NFL Week 12

Explore how the Minnesota Vikings strategically reshaped their roster with key acquisitions and trades just before NFL Week 12.

2025 NFL Rookie Class Breakdown: Top Contenders for Rookie of the Year and Fantasy Sleepers
NFL

2025 NFL Rookie Class Breakdown: Top Contenders for Rookie of the Year and Fantasy Sleepers

Explore the 2025 NFL rookie class with insights on top Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year contenders, fantasy sleepers, and key quarterback updates.

Denver Broncos Defense Faces Rookie QB Cam Ward in Season Opener: A Crucial Test for Both Sides
NFL

Denver Broncos Defense Faces Rookie QB Cam Ward in Season Opener: A Crucial Test for Both Sides

The Denver Broncos' defense prepares to face rookie QB Cam Ward in their 2025 season opener, aiming to start strong and prove their dominance.

Micah Parsons Trade Fallout: Analyzing the Cowboys' Shocking Move and Packers' Bold Strategy
NFL

Micah Parsons Trade Fallout: Analyzing the Cowboys' Shocking Move and Packers' Bold Strategy

The Cowboys' surprising trade of Micah Parsons to the Packers raises questions about Dallas' strategy and Green Bay's push for NFC supremacy. Dive into the analysis.

Detroit Lions Optimistic About 2025 Season with Strongest Roster Yet
NFL

Detroit Lions Optimistic About 2025 Season with Strongest Roster Yet

The Detroit Lions are gearing up for the 2025 NFL season with a robust roster, aiming for their first-ever Super Bowl victory under the leadership of GM Brad Holmes and coach Dan Campbell.

Hurricane Katrina's Impact on NFL: How Two Saints Coaches Returned Home After the Storm
NFL

Hurricane Katrina's Impact on NFL: How Two Saints Coaches Returned Home After the Storm

Explore how Hurricane Katrina reshaped the lives of two New Orleans Saints coaches, Chase Haslett and Terry Joseph, and their journey back to the NFL.

Bengals' Offensive Trio: Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins Set to Dominate the NFL Season
NFL

Bengals' Offensive Trio: Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins Set to Dominate the NFL Season

Explore how the Cincinnati Bengals' star trio aims to lead the team to Super Bowl glory in the 2025 NFL season.

Brian Schottenheimer's New Era: Navigating the Micah Parsons Trade and Building the Dallas Cowboys Future
NFL

Brian Schottenheimer's New Era: Navigating the Micah Parsons Trade and Building the Dallas Cowboys Future

Explore how Brian Schottenheimer is reshaping the Dallas Cowboys post-Micah Parsons trade, focusing on team dynamics and future strategies for the 2025 NFL season.

Atlanta Falcons' Critical Decision: Protecting Michael Penix Jr.'s Blind Side in the 2025 NFL Season
NFL

Atlanta Falcons' Critical Decision: Protecting Michael Penix Jr.'s Blind Side in the 2025 NFL Season

The Atlanta Falcons face a crucial decision in protecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr.'s blind side as three players compete for the starting right tackle role in the 2025 NFL season.

Arizona Cardinals' Offensive Continuity: A Game-Changer for the 2025 NFL Season
NFL

Arizona Cardinals' Offensive Continuity: A Game-Changer for the 2025 NFL Season

The Arizona Cardinals are banking on their returning offensive starters to create a seamless and powerful offense for the 2025 NFL season.

Micah Parsons Trade Analysis: Cowboys and Packers Shake Up NFL Landscape
NFL

Micah Parsons Trade Analysis: Cowboys and Packers Shake Up NFL Landscape

An in-depth analysis of the blockbuster Micah Parsons trade between the Cowboys and Packers, examining its impact on both teams and the NFL.

Revolutionizing the Green Bay Packers: The Micah Parsons Era Begins
NFL

Revolutionizing the Green Bay Packers: The Micah Parsons Era Begins

Explore how the Green Bay Packers' bold moves, including trading for Micah Parsons, signal a transformative offseason aimed at Super Bowl glory.

Top X Factors for All 32 NFL Teams in the 2025 Season: Who Will Make the Difference?
NFL

Top X Factors for All 32 NFL Teams in the 2025 Season: Who Will Make the Difference?

Discover the key X factors for all 32 NFL teams in the 2025 season. These players could be the difference-makers that determine their team's success or failure.

Aaron Rodgers: Building Bonds and Leadership in Pittsburgh Steelers
NFL

Aaron Rodgers: Building Bonds and Leadership in Pittsburgh Steelers

Aaron Rodgers integrates into the Pittsburgh Steelers, fostering team chemistry and leadership ahead of the 2025 NFL season.

Jake Moody's Kicking Evolution: How the 49ers' Kicker is Redefining His Game for NFL Success
NFL

Jake Moody's Kicking Evolution: How the 49ers' Kicker is Redefining His Game for NFL Success

Discover how Jake Moody's shift to a two-step kicking approach is transforming his game and aiming to secure his place with the San Francisco 49ers.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.