Dallas Cowboys Release Trevon Diggs Amid Controversy, Packers Claim Cornerback
The Dallas Cowboys made a surprising move on Tuesday by releasing former All-Pro cornerback Trevon Diggs. This decision was the culmination of a turbulent season marked by tension between the player and the organization. Central to the discord was Diggs’ recent $500,000 fine, which stemmed from his choice to rehab his knee away from team facilities.
Packers Step In
Following his release, the Green Bay Packers quickly swooped in to claim Diggs off waivers. He will reunite with former teammate Micah Parsons, even as Parsons currently resides on injured reserve. The Cowboys, despite parting ways with Diggs, extended their best wishes to him as he embarks on this new chapter with the Packers.
Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus addressed the situation on Thursday, acknowledging the complexities surrounding Diggs’ departure. While he emphasized that performance played a critical role, he hinted at “other elements” influencing the decision. Eberflus expressed hope that a fresh start could be beneficial for Diggs, stating, “Sometimes things don’t work out performance-based, and other elements, and sometimes when a guy gets a fresh start, it’s good for him.”
Diggs’ Decline and Injury Struggles
Once heralded as one of the NFL’s premier cornerbacks, Diggs has faced a significant decline in performance since his standout seasons in 2021 and 2022. In 2021, he recorded an impressive 11 interceptions, which showcased his ability to change the course of games. His performance in 2022 further solidified his status, leading to a lucrative five-year, $97 million contract extension in 2023.
However, just two games into his new deal, disaster struck when Diggs tore his ACL. Although he made a return in 2024, his knee appeared to hinder his performance. That season concluded prematurely due to another knee injury, necessitating surgery. His decision to rehabilitate away from the team’s facilities ultimately strained his relationship with the front office, compounded by his apparent frustration over Parsons’ departure.
Future Uncertain for Diggs
The pressing question now is whether Diggs can reclaim his former glory after such setbacks. His performance during the current season has raised eyebrows, as he has been one of the least effective cornerbacks in the league across eight games. His lack of mobility has sparked concerns regarding the state of his knee. If these issues persist, even a fresh start in Green Bay may not be sufficient for Diggs to return to his elite status.
As the Cowboys continue to plan their future, they remain focused on building a Super Bowl-caliber team around their star quarterback, with an eye on potential replacements for Diggs in upcoming drafts. The fallout from this decision will be closely monitored as both Diggs and the Cowboys move forward.
