Cowboys release CB Trevon Diggs following injury issues and performance concerns

The Dallas Cowboys have released two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Trevon Diggs, a decision fueled by injuries and performance issues.

Why it matters: This move marks a significant shift in the Cowboys' secondary strategy, especially with another former Pro Bowl cornerback, DaRon Bland, placed on injured reserve weeks earlier.

Diggs signed a five-year, $97 million contract extension in 2023, but his time on the field has been severely limited due to knee injuries over the last two seasons. A torn left anterior cruciate ligament during practice in 2023 and chondral graft surgery earlier forced him to miss significant game time.

By the numbers: In the eight games he played this season, Diggs recorded:

• 27 tackles
• 1 tackle for loss
• 2 pressures
• No pass breakups or interceptions

These statistics starkly contrast his previous five seasons, where he consistently recorded at least one interception each year, including a franchise-record 11 interceptions in 2021.

The big picture: The Cowboys decision stems from a culmination of events, including Diggs' failure to manage his rehabilitation effectively, which has raised concerns within the organization.

• A base salary de-escalation of $500,000 for 2025 was enforced after Diggs did not participate in 84% of the team's voluntary offseason program.
• If claimed off waivers, a team would owe Diggs $472,000 for Week 18, plus an additional $58,823 if he is active.

What’s next: As the Cowboys navigate their defensive backfield needs, they will rely on rookies Shavon Revel and Trikweze Bridges, along with other lesser-known players such as Caelen Carson and Corey Ballentine.

This adjustment may influence their defensive scheme as they adapt to new personnel during the concluding games of the season.

Zoom In: The Cowboys had high expectations for Diggs when they selected him as a second-round pick in 2020, given his rapid ascent to Pro Bowl status in just two seasons. However, the inability to stay healthy has overshadowed his initial promise.

The bottom line: Releasing Diggs signals a pivotal moment for the Cowboys as they seek stability in their secondary amid ongoing injury woes and performance struggles. The organization must now pivot to develop younger talent while contemplating future defensive strategies without one of its top corners.