The Dallas Cowboys’ defense has been one of the most talked-about units in the NFL over the past two seasons, and a big reason is the depth and talent in their secondary. Cornerback DaRon Bland, who made national headlines last year by stepping into a starting role after Trevon Diggs suffered a torn ACL, is now eager for the opportunity to share the field again with his fellow playmaker.
Bland turned what could have been a devastating blow for the Cowboys in 2023 into a breakout campaign. The third-year corner not only filled Diggs’ role but thrived in it, leading the league in interceptions and setting an NFL record with five pick-sixes in a single season. His ball-hawking ability and confidence quickly made him one of the top young corners in the league. But even with his individual success, Bland has openly admitted that the defense missed Diggs’ presence.
“Playing alongside Trevon is different,” Bland said earlier this week. “He’s one of the best in the league, and just having him back gives our whole defense another level of confidence. Last year was about stepping up, but this year it’s about what we can do together.”
With Diggs back healthy and eager to return to his All-Pro form, the Cowboys suddenly boast one of the most dangerous cornerback tandems in the NFL. The duo offers defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer flexibility in coverage, giving Dallas the ability to shadow elite receivers and disguise looks on the back end. That kind of versatility is exactly what makes the Cowboys’ defense so tough to prepare for.
Defensive star Micah Parsons has already expressed excitement about having Diggs and Bland locking down the perimeter, noting that it allows the pass rush even more time to get home. Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Sam Williams form a relentless front, and with the corners taking away quick throws, the Cowboys can create havoc against almost any offense.
For Bland, though, the return of Diggs means more than just X’s and O’s. It’s about chemistry, trust, and raising the bar. “We push each other,” Bland explained. “He’s been in my ear since I came in as a rookie. To have him back out there with me, it feels like things are back where they should be.”
The Cowboys enter their upcoming showdown with the Green Bay Packers with high expectations, and all eyes will be on the secondary. Jordan Love and the Packers’ young receivers will be tested against a Dallas unit that thrives on turnovers and momentum swings. After carrying the load last year, Bland is excited for the chance to share it with Diggs and give the Cowboys’ defense another weapon.
If Bland’s breakout 2023 was a sign of what’s to come, pairing him again with Diggs could make the Cowboys’ secondary one of the league’s most feared units. And for Dallas, that could be the key to making a deeper playoff push this season.
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