'I'm Not The Grinch,' Cowboys' Schottenheimer Explains Trevon Diggs Release

Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer said there were multiple factors that led to the release of cornerback Trevon Diggs, one of which was that he did not fly with the team back to Dallas after a matchup against the Washington Commanders on Christmas.

"It was one of many factors," Schottenheimer told reporters on Wednesday. "It was not the only factor. I'm not the Grinch that stole Christmas. I love Christmas. I love my family. But at the end of the day we have a protocol that we go through, and the process was not followed."

According to ESPN's Todd Archer, Diggs asked Schottenheimer if he could stay in the area after the Cowboys' win over the Commanders to spend time with his family in Maryland. The first-year head coach said no, because his rule is that the team flies to games together and returns together.

Despite Schottenheimer's ruling, Diggs opted to skip the flight back to Dallas. Schottenheimer had previously told other players that they could not fly home separately, according to Archer.

"When I look back on it, I really do like Trevon. I want what's best for him," Schottenheimer added. "I think at the end of the day, maybe he didn't like some of the things we did. I don't know. You guys will have to ask him that. But again, I thought he was trying to do better, and I wish him nothing but the best. We'll see where he lands. I'm sure he'll land on his feet and continue to play good football."

Diggs, 27, has played just eight games this season, logging 25 tackles. While his time with the Cowboys is over, he'll have the chance to suit up for another squad this season, as the Green Bay Packers claimed him off waivers on Wednesday.