Cowboys Reshuffle Secondary as Diggs Returns and Bland’s Season Ends

The Dallas Cowboys are making a significant adjustment in their defensive backfield as the regular season winds down. On Friday, the team activated star cornerback Trevon Diggs from injured reserve, clearing the way for his return to the active roster for Week 16. At the same time, Dallas placed DaRon Bland on injured reserve after a foot injury ended his season.

The moves effectively amount to a one-for-one exchange at cornerback, with Diggs stepping into the role vacated by Bland. Diggs has been sidelined since Week 6, while Bland had emerged as one of the Cowboys’ most dependable defensive contributors before suffering his injury in Week 15.

NFL insider Tom Pelissero reported that Bland’s season came to a close following surgery on Thursday. He was added to the injury report earlier in the week and did not practice, fueling speculation that an injured reserve designation was imminent.

For Diggs, the return has been anticipated for weeks. Dallas opened his 21-day practice window on Nov. 30, giving the team a limited timeframe to activate him or keep him sidelined for the remainder of the season. With the deadline approaching, the Cowboys opted to bring him back as they prepare for a critical stretch of games.

1. Bland’s Injury Brings an Abrupt End

Bland’s injury developed quickly and proved more serious than initially expected. He appeared on the injury report Wednesday with a foot issue and was unable to practice at any point during the week, immediately raising concern within the organization. Those concerns were confirmed when Bland underwent surgery on Thursday, officially ending his 2025 season. The Cowboys placed him on injured reserve shortly afterward, finalizing the roster move as they adjusted their defensive plans. Before the injury, Bland had been a stabilizing presence in the Cowboys’ secondary. His ability to handle outside assignments and contribute in coverage made him a key piece of Dallas’ defensive rotation throughout the season. Losing Bland at this stage presents challenges, particularly given the physical demands of late-season football. Still, the Cowboys believe Diggs’ return can help offset the loss and maintain continuity in the secondary.

2. Diggs Returns at a Critical Time

Diggs’ activation comes after a lengthy recovery process following his Week 6 injury. While he has practiced in recent weeks, Dallas exercised caution before committing to his return, ensuring he was ready to contribute at a high level. The Cowboys had until the end of the week to activate Diggs or allow his 21-day window to expire, which would have kept him out for the remainder of the season. The decision to bring him back signals confidence in both his health and his readiness. When healthy, Diggs remains one of the Cowboys’ most impactful defenders. His ball skills and ability to challenge receivers downfield give Dallas flexibility in coverage schemes, particularly against experienced passing attacks. As he returns, Diggs is expected to assume many of the responsibilities previously handled by Bland, allowing the defense to maintain its structure rather than overhaul its approach heading into Week 16.

3. Secondary Depth Faces Immediate Tests

Diggs is projected to line up opposite second-year cornerback Caelen Carson, who is currently listed as questionable for Week 16. Carson’s availability could further influence how Dallas deploys its defensive backs. If Carson is unable to play, rookie Shavon Revel Jr. is expected to earn his fourth career start. Revel would be supported by Trikweze Bridges, who would rotate into the defensive package as needed. In the slot, Reddy Steward is expected to continue handling nickelback duties. His assignment will include frequent coverage on veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen, presenting a significant test for the young defender. Dallas may also regain some depth with the potential return of Josh Butler, who was activated from the Physically Unable to Perform list earlier in the week. Butler appeared in only five games last season and has yet to make his 2025 debut, but his availability could provide additional insurance in the secondary.