In a significant development for the Dallas Cowboys, cornerback Trevon Diggs is set to undergo surgery on his left knee, a procedure necessitated by fluid buildup and cartilage issues. Diggs’ surgery underscores the series of unfortunate physical setbacks he has encountered throughout the 2024 season.
Despite being placed on the injured reserve list by the Cowboys, Diggs' injury is encouragingly not linked to the ACL tear that plagued him before Week 3 against the Arizona Cardinals last season. This is a separate complication that the team hopes to resolve swiftly and efficiently.
A Season of Challenges
This season saw Diggs play in 11 games, during which he logged two interceptions, 11 pass breakups, and 44 tackles. These stats illustrate not only his crucial role in the Cowboys' defense but also his relentless determination to perform at the highest level in spite of physical challenges.
“I felt okay. Just dealing with the same issue as I was before but other than that, I was just fighting through it and pushing,” Diggs shared. His sentiments echo the struggles faced by athletes who fight not only the opposition but also their bodies to stay in the game.
Aiming for Recovery
Despite the setbacks, there is an optimistic timeline set for Diggs' return. According to Stephen Jones, “I think his timeline will be right at the start of the season.” This outlook provides a glimmer of hope for both the player and the Cowboys, with aspirations for Diggs’ full recovery and an effective return for the 2025 season.
Jones further praised Diggs' tenacity and commitment to the team, stating, “He was doing everything he can because he wants to play, he wants to compete, and he wants to contribute.” This unwavering dedication from Diggs is emblematic of his role as a key player for the Cowboys despite various injuries including calf, groin, and the current knee issues.
An Injury-Plagued Roster
The Cowboys' injury woes extend beyond Diggs. They currently have several pivotal players on injured reserve for the 2024 season, featuring marquee names such as Dak Prescott, Zack Martin, DaRon Bland, and DeMarcus Lawrence. Micah Parsons also missed critical games due to a high ankle sprain.
The impact of these absences has been felt on the field, reflected in the Cowboys’ current 6-8 standing for the season, a stark indicator of the toll injuries can take on a team’s overall performance and morale.
Financial Implications
Looking ahead, Diggs carries a significant $14.25 million cap hit in 2025. The financial implications are substantial for the team’s budgeting and strategy sessions, potentially shaping future decisions related to contracts and player acquisitions.
In the midst of these challenges, Trevon Diggs remains focused on a full recovery, eyeing the opportunity to return to the field at his prime. With surgery on the horizon, both Diggs and the Dallas Cowboys look forward to starting fresh in the upcoming season, with hopes that the cornerback will once again be the formidable presence on the field that fans and teammates alike yearn to see.