Cowboys' Diggs not activated, out for game against Vikings, remains on injured reserve

Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs will not play in the upcoming game against the Minnesota Vikings as he remains on injured reserve.

Why it matters: Diggs’s absence is significant for a Cowboys defense that has relied heavily on his skills since he joined the team. His shutdown capabilities and ball-hawking instincts make him a cornerstone of the secondary, impacting both defensive schemes and player matchups.

• The Cowboys have struggled in past games without their top defender, and facing an offense like Minnesota's, which can exploit weaknesses in coverage, could prove challenging.

What’s new: Diggs has participated in practices leading up to the game but has not been activated from injured reserve, which means he must be added to the 53-man roster by December 20 or remain sidelined for the rest of the season.

• He was limited during practice sessions, indicating that while he is making progress, he is not yet ready for game action.

By the numbers: In six games this season, Diggs recorded 20 tackles, one tackle for loss, and two quarterback pressures, but notably, he has no interceptions or pass deflections.

• This contrasts sharply with his previous seasons where he tallied 14 interceptions over the course of 2021 and 2022, reflecting the impact of injuries on his performance.

Yes, but: While there is optimism regarding Diggs’s recovery, the cautious approach taken by the coaching staff emphasizes long-term health over short-term gains.

• Brian Schottenheimer stated, “He’s still in the ramp-up period. I think he does feel healthy. I know he wants to play. But at the end of the day, we have to do what we think is in the best interest of not just him, but also the football team.”

Zoom Out: The broader implications of Diggs’s situation speak to the challenges faced by teams in managing player health in a physically demanding sport.

• With two surgeries already completed on his left knee, including a torn ACL repair, the decision to ensure Diggs is fully healthy before returning underscores a growing trend in the NFL focusing on player longevity.

What’s next: As the deadline for activation approaches, all eyes will be on whether Diggs can return to the field and contribute before the playoffs, should the Cowboys secure a postseason berth.

• The Cowboys’ ability to navigate this period without Diggs will be crucial, particularly against formidable opponents who may exploit the weaknesses in their secondary.