Dallas Cowboys standout cornerback Trevon Diggs endured a season-ending torn ACL in his left knee during Thursday’s practice.
Massive Loss for the Cowboys
Diggs sustained the injury during a one-on-one period in practice and was briefly seen inside the team facility on crutches before undergoing an MRI, which confirmed the tear. He was drafted by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft and is the twin brother of Buffalo Bills’ wide receiver, Stefon Diggs.
This injury is a significant blow to the Dallas Cowboys’ defense, which currently ranks No. 1 in the NFL in yards allowed and points per game through the first two weeks of the season. The Cowboys’ defense is renowned for its ability to create turnovers and led the NFL in turnovers in both 2021 and 2022.
Since entering the NFL in 2020, Trevon Diggs has recorded an impressive 18 interceptions, tying him with J.C. Jackson of the Los Angeles Chargers for the most in the NFL. His breakout season in 2021 saw him lead the NFL with 11 interceptions, earn a Pro Bowl nod, and secure First-Team All-Pro honors. Diggs is highly regarded for his ball-hawking skills, knack for making big plays, solid tackling ability, and favorable combination of size and speed for a cornerback.
Cowboys Additional Injury Concerns
Unfortunately for the Cowboys, the injury woes didn’t stop with Trevon Diggs. Pro Bowl center Tyler Biadasz also suffered a hamstring injury during Thursday’s practice and is currently undergoing an MRI to assess the extent of the damage. Biadasz, known for his intelligence, toughness, and communication skills, was drafted by the Cowboys in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Impact on the Cowboys’ Defense
With Diggs sidelined, the Cowboys will have to make adjustments in their defensive lineup. DaRon Bland, a fifth-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft, may step into the outside cornerback role opposite Stephon Gilmore, acquired in an offseason trade with the Indianapolis Colts. Jourdan Lewis can revert to his slot cornerback position. Notably, Lewis recently made his return to the field after recovering from a serious foot injury suffered in October, seeing action in 10 snaps.
Bland, who led the Cowboys with five interceptions last season, already made an impact with a pick-six in the season-opening win against the New York Giants. The Cowboys also have additional options in Noah Igbinoghene, a 2020 first-round pick from the Miami Dolphins acquired earlier this month via trade, and rookie Eric Scott at cornerback.
Notably, Nahshon Wright is on injured reserve with an ankle injury but is expected to return to game action in Week 5, providing some much-needed depth in the secondary for the Cowboys.
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