The Dallas Cowboys will be down a key starter on defense.
Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer took fans and media members by surprise when he opened his Friday press conference by announcing cornerback Trevon Diggs is out for Week 7.
Ahead of the matchup versus the Washington Commanders, Diggs suffered an “accident” at his home and displayed concussion symptoms, which landed him in the concussion protocol. Schottenheimer didn’t reveal details about Diggs’ accident.
The unfortunate news wipes out what looked like a potential advantage over the Commanders as minutes earlier, Washington head coach Dan Quinn ruled out star wide receiver Terry McLaurin. Though Diggs hasn’t played up to his standard from previous years, not having him means the Dallas defense will be down a starter.
Caelen Carson and Trikweze Bridges were mentioned by name by Schottenheimer at his press conference. My best guess is the Cowboys deploy cornerbacks as follows:
- Outside CBs: DaRon Bland, Kaiir Elam
- Nickel CB: Reddy Steward
I would expect Carson specifically—who is expected to make his 2025 debut after starting the year on Injured Reserve—to get some playing time, as well.
Cowboys defense urgently needs to show some life
Whoever takes the field, he needs to be ready to perform. The Cowboys have the worst defense in the league, which has costed Dallas multiple games. The Cowboys have averaged 25.3 points in the games they’ve lost or tied, which would rank in the Top 10 of the NFL.
Unfortunately, they’ll have to do it without Diggs on short notice.
