The Dallas Cowboys have been anxiously awaiting good news regarding the health of their Pro Bowl cornerback Trevon Diggs, and now it seems they’ve finally received it. After a season-ending ACL tear in practice just three weeks into the 2023 campaign, Diggs has spent the better part of the last year focusing on recovery, rehabilitation, and refining his physical and mental approach to the game. On Wednesday, Diggs broke his silence in a media appearance and offered an update that fans and coaches alike have been hoping to hear: he feels great, is ahead of schedule, and is fully ready to rejoin the Cowboys for the 2025 NFL season.
It’s hard to overstate the significance of this news. Diggs is more than just a key player for the Cowboys’ defense; he’s become a symbol of the aggressive, ball-hawking identity that Dallas has built under defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer and head coach Mike McCarthy. His ability to change the momentum of games with timely interceptions and lockdown coverage made him a top defensive playmaker during the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Losing him in 2023 was a blow that altered the dynamics of the Cowboys’ secondary and forced younger players to mature faster than expected.
In his first public comments since being cleared for full-speed drills, Diggs expressed gratitude for the medical staff and physical therapists who supported him through a grueling rehab process. He described the past year as one of both physical and emotional challenges, but also one that helped him grow. The mental fortitude required to return from an ACL injury is immense for any athlete, and Diggs admitted there were moments of doubt. However, his family, teammates, and personal drive kept him focused on the bigger picture — returning stronger than before.
One of the most telling parts of his update came when he spoke confidently about his mobility and footwork. Diggs noted that his acceleration, change of direction, and lateral movement — all crucial aspects of cornerback play — have returned to pre-injury levels. For someone who relies heavily on quick cuts and fast reaction time to stay in phase with elite NFL receivers, this is a vital development. He emphasized that his training sessions have included simulated game scenarios, and he’s had no setbacks during these more intense workouts. “I feel like I’m me again,” he said, smiling.
From a team perspective, Diggs’ return could be the spark that takes the Cowboys’ defense from great to dominant. In his absence, Dallas leaned heavily on DaRon Bland, who had a breakout year, and veteran Stephon Gilmore, who provided steadiness and experience. But adding Diggs back into the mix restores the depth and elite talent that separates playoff-caliber defenses from Super Bowl contenders. With Micah Parsons continuing to wreak havoc on the defensive line, and Diggs reclaiming his role as the No. 1 corner, opposing offenses will have their hands full trying to find weak spots.
Cowboys defensive backs coach Al Harris praised Diggs’ dedication throughout the rehab process, noting that Diggs was frequently present in meetings and film sessions even when he wasn’t physically able to participate. “He stayed locked in mentally,” Harris said. “He didn’t check out. That’s the mark of a real pro.” Harris also stated that Diggs has returned with a sharper understanding of route concepts and offensive schemes, suggesting that the time off may have served as a masterclass in mental preparation.
Diggs’ optimism is matched by his performance in training camp. Observers at the Cowboys’ OTAs and early preseason sessions have reported that Diggs looks fluid, confident, and explosive. There’s been no visible hesitation in his movement, and his vocal presence on the field is once again setting the tone for the secondary. Teammates have spoken highly of his energy and leadership, noting that even the younger players seem more confident when Diggs is lined up across from them. For a franchise with lofty expectations and a fan base hungry for postseason success, that kind of impact is invaluable.
Of course, the road back hasn’t been without its hurdles. Diggs admitted that the first few months post-surgery were the toughest. The frustration of watching games from the sidelines, coupled with the pain and monotony of rehab sessions, took a toll. There were times when he had to remind himself why he loved football in the first place. But through it all, he found motivation in the people around him — especially his brother, Buffalo Bills wide receiver Stefon Diggs. The two maintained regular contact during the season, and Stefon served as both a source of encouragement and a reminder of what’s possible when you stay committed to the grind.
The Cowboys’ front office also played a role in keeping Diggs motivated. The franchise reaffirmed their belief in his long-term value by continuing to include him in the team’s future plans and maintaining open communication throughout his recovery. Executive Vice President Stephen Jones recently reiterated how vital Diggs is to the team’s identity. “He’s a game-changer,” Jones said. “Having him back at full strength changes the entire equation on defense.”
Fans are understandably excited, not just because of what Diggs brings on the field, but also because of what his return symbolizes. In an NFL era marked by constant change and uncertainty, Diggs represents a homegrown star who has bought into the Cowboys’ culture and vision. Drafted in the second round out of Alabama in 2020, he quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the franchise’s rebuild. His 11-interception season in 2021 put him in elite company, and his continued growth in subsequent years only solidified his status.
Heading into the 2025 season, expectations for Diggs are understandably high. But if his recent comments and performances are any indication, he’s not just ready to meet those expectations — he’s eager to exceed them. When asked about his personal goals for the year, Diggs didn’t focus on stats or accolades. Instead, he emphasized team success and winning games. “I just want to help this team win. That’s it,” he said. “I know what I bring to the table, and I’m ready to go.”
One aspect of Diggs’ game that fans can expect to see more of this season is his versatility. While he has always been known for his ball-hawking abilities and instincts, Diggs and the Cowboys coaching staff have reportedly discussed expanding his role to include more situational responsibilities, such as shadowing elite receivers across the field and providing disguised coverage schemes. His intelligence, athleticism, and length make him ideal for this kind of hybrid role, and it’s one that could further elevate his standing among the league’s top defenders.
The Cowboys are set to open their season with a tough matchup, but Diggs’ presence will offer a psychological edge that can’t be quantified on a stat sheet. Opposing quarterbacks know better than to test him too often, and receivers respect — and sometimes fear — the possibility of a game-changing pick. That kind of respect affects play calling, tempo, and overall game flow. It’s the kind of influence only elite players possess.
