Cowboys Head Coach Reveals Reason Behind Not Starting All-Pro CB
The Dallas Cowboys managed to get a rare tie in Sunday night’s game at the much-favored Green Bay Packers, despite many counting out their chances beforehand.
Granted, ties give out much more of a “both teams lost”, than “both teams won” vibe, but irregardless, the Cowboys should be happy with their performance in the 40-40 stalemate.
One question that arose after the game, however, is why All-Pro cornerback, Trevon Diggs, did not start alongside fellow All-Pro, DaRon Bland – who, like Diggs, has been dealing with an injury in recent weeks – despite both getting numerous reps inside the game.
Head coach, Brian Schottenheimer, addressed this in his Monday morning press availability, via The Athletic’s Jon Machota.
Schottenheimer And Diggs Both Discuss Him Not Starting Week 4 Game
When asked about the reasons behind not starting arguably the most able player in the entire secondary, Schottenheimer pointed to both the former second round pick’s health and some past consistency issues on the field.
“We’re talented. He’s been banged up a little bit.” Schottenheimer said to the media on Monday. “I’ve been a little tough on Trevon, just in terms of the consistency and things like that. But, man, I thought he played really well. I’m proud of him. It’s a similar type thing with other guys. I mean, it wasn’t just us picking on Trevon. Trevon is a hell of a player. Trevon is a huge part of what we’re trying to do.”
And it turns out that this plan to not start Diggs was did pre-discussed and pre-meditated before the game, as ex Alabama standout was caught off guard by not being in the starting lineup.
“Cowboys CB Trevon Diggs when asked if he didn’t start last night because of a health situation and if he was surprised by that”, Machota wrote on X – before quoting Diggs, “Yeah, maybe, a little bit. A little bit. A little bit. A little bit.”
What Is the Future Of Trevon Diggs With The Cowboys?
Owner, Jerry Jones, also weighed in on the situation, claiming that it must have essentially been entirely about Diggs’ health, as they are not looking to set him aside to develop younger players on the back end of the roster.
“Jerry Jones when asked if Diggs’ usage in the game was more about his health or moving on to playing other guys”, Machota’s post continued, as he noted Jones’ words, “There’s no moving on to other guys. So, it had to be reps regarding health or that type thing. … I’m pleased with how Diggs played.”
Diggs is currently the starting perimeter cornerback in Dallas, opposite offseason trade acquisition, Kair Elam, who was bought in from the Buffalo Bills earlier this year.
After two excellent seasons in 2021 and 2022, the Cowboys signed Diggs to a 5 year, $97 extension. However, he has caught the injury bug over the past two subsequent years, managing to make just 13 out of a possible 34 starts over that time frame.
Diggs is owed $18 million in 2026, and can be cut for a dead cap of just $5 million in March, leaving many to speculate that his time in Dallas could be numbered. But for now, he remains on the team, and health-permitting, it would seem he is very much the starter going forward.
Roquan Smith on Ravens’ Deepening Injury Woes: ‘We’ve Got to Be Resilient’
Roquan Smith, linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens, has spoken out following the team’s mounting injury problems, emphasizing the need for resilience and leadership amidst the adversity. After a series of setbacks that has left the Ravens’ roster stretched thin, Smith is focused on rallying his teammates and keeping the team competitive.
“It’s been a tough stretch,” Smith said. “The injuries have piled up, and it’s definitely made things harder on all of us. But we can’t let this define us. We’ve got to step up, play harder, and cover for each other. That’s what good teams do when times get rough.”
Smith’s Perspective: ‘We Control How We Respond’
While acknowledging the difficulty of the situation, Smith emphasized that the team’s attitude and preparation remain under their control. “There’s a lot we can’t control, like injuries, but how we respond to it—that’s on us,” he explained. “We have to be smart, stay focused, and make the most of the guys we have. That’s the mindset we need to succeed despite the setbacks.”
Leadership Amid Adversity: ‘We’ve Got to Keep Fighting’
Smith has taken a leadership role in helping his teammates stay motivated. “It’s all about energy and accountability,” he said. “Every guy needs to do his job and push the limit, because we’ve got to make up for the guys who are out. This is when leaders show up, and I’m ready to do my part to keep us in the fight.”
Looking Ahead: ‘We Can Overcome This’
As the Ravens prepare for upcoming games, Smith remains focused on maintaining competitiveness and unity. “We’ve got to stay together and keep fighting,” he said. “The injuries aren’t going away, but we can overcome this if we play smart, stay disciplined, and trust each other. That’s the only way we get through it.”
Smith’s determination and leadership underscore the resilience the Ravens need to navigate their injury crisis and remain in contention despite significant challenges.
