Cowboys-Saints Joint Practice Descends Into Chaos as Coaches Consider Stopping It

A joint practice between the Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints descended into widespread chaos on Tuesday, August 18, in Oxnard, California, as multiple fights erupted, leading to player ejections and prompting coaches to consider ending the session early. The altercation-filled workout, meant to be a final tune-up before the preseason finale, saw punches thrown, helmets tossed, and several team-wide brawls break out between the two teams.

The conflict escalated quickly from chippy exchanges into full-scale melees. Cowboys linebacker Donovan Ezeiruaku was ejected by practice officials after they observed him throw a punch, marking the second time during training camp he has been tossed for such an action. Cornerback Caelen Carson also threw a punch after a Saints player grabbed and held his facemask, though he was allowed to remain in practice. On the Saints side, center Erik McCoy was involved in a scrum and was seen throwing a Cowboys helmet into the air. A significant incident also occurred when Saints tight end Moliki Matavao wrestled Cowboys safety Jalen Thompson to the ground, a takedown some reports likened to a professional wrestling move.