Jimmy Johnson reveals how Michael Irvin’s airport mistake led to $1,000 fine and punishment against Lions
The game records listed by Pro Football Reference and UPI confirm the final score and the players’ performances. Irvin’s late arrival did not stop him from having a major impact once he was allowed to play.
Jimmy Johnson left Michael Irvin behind after he missed the Cowboys’ team flight
The former Cowboys coach recalled how Irvin arrived late for the team flight in 1992, forcing Johnson to leave him behind. He was also fined $1,000 for missing the team flight, according to the account of the incident.
The quarterback rushed to the front of the plane and told his coach that the wide receiver had not arrived. “And Troy Aikman came running up to the front of the plane, said, ‘Coach, coach, Michael’s not here. And I said, ‘I don’t care, close the door,’” Johnson recalled.
Jimmy Johnson once made a tough call that left Dallas Cowboys legend Michael Irvin watching his teammates fly to Detroit without him. The punishment did not end at the airport, either. Johnson also kept the Hall of Fame receiver out of the starting lineup against the Lions. The team was ready to leave when Troy Aikman noticed that Irvin was missing. Johnson, however, had already made up his mind. Irvin was outside the plane, waving at the team and hoping they would wait for him. Johnson saw him through the window but still ordered the doors to close. The receiver had to make his own way to Detroit and pay for his flight. Irvin eventually reached Detroit and joined the team for its film session that evening. He apologised to Johnson, who made it clear that being sorry would not get him out of trouble.