Are the Cowboys Still in Terrible Shape at Cornerback? An In-Depth Look at the Depth Chart
The Dallas Cowboys have long struggled with a secondary that’s been inconsistent and underperforming in key moments, particularly at the cornerback position. While the team has had some success in the draft and through free agency, their depth chart at cornerback has raised questions over the years.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at where the Cowboys stand in 2025, evaluating their cornerback depth chart, the talent they’ve accumulated, and the potential challenges they still face. Are the Cowboys finally in a better position, or are they still struggling with a weak secondary?
The Cornerback Position: A Recurring Issue
The cornerback position has been one of the most debated on the Cowboys’ roster for years. Despite a few strong seasons from standout players like Deion Sanders in the ’90s, and more recently, Trayvon Diggs, the position has been a hotbed of inconsistency. Whether it’s through the draft or free agency, the Cowboys have often failed to establish long-term stability at cornerback.
In recent years, Dallas has faced criticism for being too reliant on high-risk, high-reward players, while their depth has often left much to be desired. This was evident in seasons where injury or suspension decimated their cornerback corps, leaving them scrambling for replacements.
Now, heading into the 2025 season, the question remains: Has the Cowboys’ front office successfully addressed this glaring issue, or is the team still in trouble at the cornerback position?
2025 Dallas Cowboys Cornerback Depth Chart
As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL season, the Cowboys’ cornerback depth chart is more promising than in previous years. Here’s a breakdown of the key players expected to lead the group.
1. Trayvon Diggs – The Star Cornerback
Trayvon Diggs, entering his fifth year with the Cowboys, has proven to be one of the most dynamic playmakers in the league. Known for his ability to create turnovers, Diggs finished the 2024 season with another impressive set of interceptions. His ball-hawking skills have earned him Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors, making him one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL.
However, Diggs’ game is a double-edged sword. While he is fantastic at intercepting passes, he has struggled with consistency, especially when it comes to limiting big plays. His tendency to gamble for interceptions can sometimes lead to blown coverages, which has been a point of concern. Nevertheless, his elite physical traits, including speed and agility, make him a formidable defender.
As the Cowboys’ top cornerback, Diggs is expected to be the leader of the secondary in 2025. Whether he can improve his consistency and continue to capitalize on his knack for interceptions will be crucial to Dallas’ success.
2. Stephon Gilmore – The Veteran Presence
Stephon Gilmore, a seasoned veteran who was acquired by the Cowboys in the 2023 offseason, continues to play a key role in the secondary. Known for his ability to shut down top receivers and his veteran leadership, Gilmore has added a much-needed layer of stability to the cornerback room. His time with the New England Patriots, where he won an NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, has given him a wealth of experience that few in the league can match.
At 34 years old, Gilmore is no longer the elite lockdown corner he once was, but he is still a highly capable player. In 2024, Gilmore was often matched up against the opponent’s best receiver, and while he didn’t produce the same flashy numbers as in his prime, he was able to hold his own against top-tier competition. His ability to play smart, disciplined football makes him a valuable asset, especially in critical situations.
In 2025, Gilmore is expected to continue in a starting role, providing leadership and experience, while also offering the flexibility to take on challenging assignments. However, age could start to catch up with him, which raises concerns about his long-term effectiveness.
3. Kelvin Joseph – The Potential Breakout
Kelvin Joseph, a 2021 second-round draft pick, has had a tumultuous start to his career. After struggling with consistency and off-field issues, Joseph has yet to fully establish himself as a reliable starter. That being said, the Cowboys still believe in his potential and continue to give him opportunities to prove himself.
Joseph has all the physical tools to succeed at cornerback. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and possessing impressive speed and length, he has the size to match up with bigger receivers. However, his decision-making and coverage skills have often been questioned. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, Joseph has been prone to mental lapses, leading to blown coverages and missed tackles.
In 2025, the Cowboys will be hoping that Joseph takes the next step in his development. He has the talent to be a starting corner, but it remains to be seen whether he can overcome his previous struggles and become a key contributor to the defense.
4. DaRon Bland – A Strong Backup Option
DaRon Bland, a 2022 sixth-round pick, surprised many by making an impact as a rookie and securing a spot on the Cowboys’ roster. Bland’s rise in 2023 and 2024 showcased his ability to step up when needed, particularly in the slot, and he has earned a reputation as a reliable backup option. His ability to play both inside and outside cornerback gives the Cowboys added flexibility when constructing their defensive game plans.
While Bland isn’t a star player, he is a solid option for depth, capable of stepping in and contributing when injuries or rotations necessitate it. With more experience under his belt, Bland could continue to grow into a key contributor for the secondary. His coverage skills have improved year over year, and he is likely to be a regular part of the Cowboys’ defensive rotations in 2025.
5. Eric Scott Jr. – The Rookie Potential
The Cowboys selected Eric Scott Jr. in the 2025 NFL Draft, a promising cornerback who could add depth to their secondary. Scott has shown a great deal of promise as an athlete, boasting impressive measurables and solid college production. However, as with any rookie, there will be a learning curve as he transitions to the NFL.
In 2025, Scott may not immediately crack the starting lineup, but he could push for playing time as a developmental project. If his instincts and physical tools translate well to the pro level, Scott could eventually become a key contributor in the secondary. For now, he’s more of a long-term project, but he adds depth to the position and could be a hidden gem for the Cowboys.
The Cowboys’ Cornerback Depth: A Mixed Bag of Strengths and Weaknesses
On paper, the Cowboys’ cornerback depth chart appears to be improved compared to previous years. They have a solid mix of experience, star power, and potential. However, there are still several concerns that could hinder the team’s ability to succeed in 2025.
Strengths:
- Trayvon Diggs’ Playmaking Ability: Diggs remains one of the most dangerous cornerbacks in the NFL when it comes to creating turnovers. His ability to snatch interceptions out of the air gives the Cowboys a game-changing element. As long as he can limit his mistakes, Diggs will continue to be a major asset for Dallas.
- Veteran Leadership with Gilmore: Gilmore’s experience and ability to neutralize top receivers provide a level of stability to the defense. His presence allows the Cowboys to match up against elite receivers, especially in critical situations.
- Depth in Slot and Backup Roles: Players like DaRon Bland and potentially Eric Scott Jr. provide the Cowboys with capable backups, ensuring that they won’t be scrambling for bodies in the event of injury or suspension. The flexibility to rotate players in and out can keep the defense fresh throughout the season.
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistency of Kelvin Joseph: Joseph’s development has been slow, and his mental lapses could continue to be a liability in the secondary. If he doesn’t take the next step in his progression, the Cowboys could face issues, especially if injuries strike.
- Age Concerns with Gilmore: While Gilmore is still a quality corner, his age may start to catch up with him in 2025. A decline in speed or physicality could make it more difficult for him to match up against younger, faster receivers.
- Lack of Elite Depth: Beyond Diggs and Gilmore, there are questions about the Cowboys’ depth at cornerback. Bland is reliable, but not a game-changer, and while Scott shows potential, he’s a rookie with no NFL experience.
