CeeDee Lamb criticized as “fake leader” following drop-filled outing in Cowboys’ comeback victory
The Dallas Cowboys engineered a stunning comeback in Week 12, overcoming a daunting 21-0 halftime deficit against their arch-rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles. The final score of 24-21 was clinched by a last-second field goal from Brandon Aubrey, marking a significant team effort where contributions were felt on both sides of the ball.
Team Resilience on Display
Key players stepped up during this crucial matchup. George Pickens made several clutch receptions, including one that set the stage for the decisive kick. Defensively, Sam Williams forced a pivotal fumble, while Osa Odighizuwa delivered a timely sack that shifted the momentum in favor of the Cowboys. This victory was a testament to Dallas’s collective resilience, but amidst the celebration, one player found himself under scrutiny.
CeeDee Lamb’s Struggles Emerge
Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, who had previously struggled with drops in a Week 1 loss to the Eagles, was again in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. In this game, he recorded three drops, including a critical third-and-goal pass in the end zone that would have put Dallas ahead. Despite the team’s success, Lamb’s performance and body language raised eyebrows and sparked criticism.
Following the game, Lamb chose to skip media interactions, which only intensified the backlash he faced. Notably, Shan Shariff from 105.3 The Fan did not hold back, labeling him a “fake leader.”
An Evolving Narrative of Leadership
“Right now, CeeDee Lamb is acting like a fake leader. He’s a fake leader,” Shariff expressed candidly. “I wanted to fully support him because he charms us and wins us over every year during our time with him in Oxnard. He is real, he is genuine, and I truly believe he is an absolute beast and a number one receiver. But he’s not this team’s number one receiver right now.”
Shariff’s comments underscore a growing concern about Lamb’s leadership qualities, especially when the pressure mounts. He drew parallels to legendary figures like Michael Jordan, emphasizing that real leaders handle adversity with poise and accountability. “When things aren’t going right, you don’t show up and talk to the media? Real leaders don’t act like this,” he added.
The narrative surrounding Lamb’s leadership will continue to evolve as the Cowboys look to solidify their playoff aspirations. While his talent is undeniable, the question remains whether he can rise to the occasion and embody the leadership this team desperately needs in high-pressure moments.

