Cowboys Bid Farewell to Diggs: What's Next for the Star CB?

Diggs' Departure: A Shocking Decision

The Dallas Cowboys have announced the release of cornerback Trevon Diggs, a move that comes just before the final game of the season against the New York Giants. This decision sent shockwaves through the organization and the fanbase alike.

“A culmination of events, including performance,” is how one source described the reasoning behind the split, indicating deeper issues may have been at play.

Injury Woes and Discontent

Diggs' time with the Cowboys has been marred by injuries, limiting him to just 21 games over the past two seasons. His operation under the weight of sky-high expectations, stemming from his $97 million contract extension signed in 2023, has been anything but smooth. A torn ACL in left knee has plagued him, and subsequent injuries added salt to an already gaping wound.

This Season: Performance Under Scrutiny

Playing in only eight games this season, Diggs recorded 27 tackles and, alarmingly, did not register a single interception or pass breakup—a far cry from his previous years when he was a ball-hawking threat. In 2021, he tied a franchise record with 11 interceptions, but 2023's numbers starkly contrast that stellar ceiling:

• 27 tackles
• 1 tackle for loss
• 2 pressures

It's clear that the team had expectations and Diggs has only compounded his issues by seeking rehab away from the organization's trained eyes. Decisions like training at his own facility in South Florida instead of with the Cowboys' staff raised countless eyebrows within the organization, leading to discontent.

What's Next for Diggs?

If no team claims him, he'll enter the free-agent market as a lesson learned for both parties. He'll be available for a fraction of his previous contract—just $472,000 for Week 18, or $58,823 if he takes the field. A stark reminder that successful careers can falter, but there's always a way back.

Future of the Cowboys

The Cowboys, too, have a task ahead of them. With DaRon Bland placed on injured reserve, they have turned to a group of rookies to fill the void. The future is promising but uncertain:

• Shavon Revel
• Trikweze Bridges
• Caelen Carson

These youngsters may need to step up sooner than later, as both the season and the franchise's defensive strategy hang in the balance.

Conclusion: Lessons Learned

In the end, the release of Trevon Diggs serves as a poignant reminder of the volatility in sports, especially at the NFL level. Performance, injuries, and personal choices can all reach a head, leading to a dramatic parting of ways. For Diggs, the onus is now on him to prove that he can still be a game-changer in the league.