Jerry Jones's generous gesture toward one of the Cowboys' stars “clashes” with his image as a tough businessman

T he Dallas Cowboys owner, Jerry Jones , demonstrated a personal side of his leadership when he helped Shemar James return home to be with his wife as she went into labor, arranging private air travel and transportation to the hospital.

The gesture came after the Cowboys secured a 34-30 victory over the Houston Texans in Week 4, improving their record to 2-2 and temporarily bring their NFL season back to life as Dak Prescott connected with CeeDee Lamb for a 12-yard touchdown with 40 seconds remaining, sealing the win.

However, Jones had another priority beyond celebrations once the game ended as with James needing to reach his wife, Erica , the franchise owner offered the use of his private plane to get the linebacker back to Dallas as quickly as possible.

The assistance extended beyond the flight. Jones also arranged an escort from the airstrip to the hospital, helping James avoid unnecessary delays while his wife was in labor, leaving few doubting that he truly does care about the team.

Jones ' involvement stands out because his public reputation has often been shaped by his hard-nosed approach to running the franchise but his backing for a second-year fifth-round pick proves otherwise.

James ’ relationship with Erica reportedly dates back to their college years, making the opportunity to be present for the birth of their child particularly significant and a memorable moment for both parents.

Cowboys face CeeDee Lamb blow in loss to Tampa Bay

Meanwhile on the field, Dallas subsequently fell to 2-3 after losing 24-16 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday Night Football, adding pressure to a season that had already featured inconsistent performances on both sides of the ball.

Avoiding turnovers proved key and whilst Prescott threw for 316 yards and a touchdown against Tampa Bay , his two interceptions contributed decisively to Dallas ' defeat – especially as one came on a tipped pass late in the game, helping the Buccaneers secure the result.

The Cowboys also struggled to contain the NFC South side’s ground game, which produced 241 yards and Lamb managed only two catches for nine yards before leaving with a quadriceps injury.

Schottenheimer acknowledges his disappointment with the team's record after being beaten by a side that had been winless through the first four weeks, but insists there is time to improve.

Next up for the Cowboys is a meeting against Green Bay on October 18. The Packers will not have Micah Parsons available, and now Dallas may not have Lamb either.