Cowboys CB sends NFL warning with return of former interceptions leader

Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland.

Cowboys two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Trevon Diggs’ 2023 season ended before it started after he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during a practice in September.

It was a big blow to Dallas’ defense as he was ruled out for the season, having surgery to repair it in October.

However, his absence helped another young cornerback have a breakout season. DaRon Bland, a fifth-round pick in 2022, led the league with nine interceptions and set an NFL record with five interception returns for touchdowns.

Bland believes the NFL could be overlooking the Cowboys’ new cornerback duo and sent a warning to the other 31 teams on Wednesday.

“I mean, a lot of people are not expecting what Tre is gonna come back with,” Bland said, via Jon Machota of The Athletic. “I know what Tre is gonna come back with. It’s going to be something dangerous. Can’t wait.”

Like Bland, Diggs is also a former NFL interceptions leader. In 2021, he had a league-leading 11 interceptions, returning two for touchdowns and earning All-Pro honors.

If Diggs can return to the level of play he was at before he got injured, it’s safe to say Dallas has two ballhawk corners on the outside.

Of course, that is a big “if,” but Diggs is still only 25 and the Cowboys have said they expect him back for the start of training camp. So, it would be surprising if he faces any setbacks at this point of his rehab.

That is enough cause for concern for opposing offenses in 2024, especially after Dallas’ defense allowed the fifth-fewest passing yards per game (187.4) in the league last season without Diggs.

The Cowboys still have several questions of their own after a very inactive offseason thus far, but as long as Diggs returns fully healthy, cornerback is not one of them.

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