The Dallas Cowboys are navigating a whirlwind of storylines as the 2025 NFL season approaches, with Micah Parsons’ contract saga grabbing headlines. But another critical narrative is unfolding around one of the team’s brightest defensive stars: cornerback Trevon Diggs. After undergoing offseason knee surgery, Diggs was activated from the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list on Sunday, marking a significant step in his recovery. On Monday, following his first practice back with the team, Diggs opened up to the media about his progress, his mindset, and his chances of suiting up for the Cowboys’ season opener against the division-rival Philadelphia Eagles on September 4th.
When asked about his readiness for Week 1, Diggs was candid yet measured. “I think I need a couple more practices just to see where I’m at, just going full speed and things,” he said. “I feel really, really good, so as far as the repetition and just getting back familiar with the game—I don’t know yet.” His comments reflect a player eager to return but acutely aware of the need to be fully prepared. Diggs emphasized his commitment to staying sharp, noting, “The more that I practice, we got a break. I’m gonna stay here and continue to work and try and make it for the first game.”
This cautious approach is a promising sign for Cowboys fans. Diggs’ determination to prioritize his conditioning and game readiness over rushing back prematurely could be the difference between a strong season and a setback. His focus on extra reps and conditioning drills shows a veteran’s understanding of what it takes to compete at an elite level.
The Cowboys’ secondary is dangerously thin without Diggs. DaRon Bland, a turnover machine in his own right, is locked in as a starter, and trade acquisition Kaiir Elam, formerly of the Buffalo Bills, has shown promise during training camp. However, depth at outside cornerback remains a concern. Kemon Hall and Zion Childress are holding down the slot, but rookie Shavon Revel, a third-round pick, is likely to start the season on the PUP list after tearing his ACL in September 2024 while at East Carolina. This leaves Diggs, Bland, and Elam as the primary outside cornerbacks—a trio that could be tested early if Diggs isn’t fully ready.
Elam, despite his first-round pedigree, struggled in Buffalo, with enough inconsistent play to prompt the Bills to move on. Without Diggs’ elite coverage skills and playmaking ability, the Cowboys’ defense could be exposed against a potent Eagles offense. Diggs’ presence is critical not just for his on-field impact but for the stability he brings to a unit that can’t afford to gamble with unproven depth.
While Diggs is clearly motivated to return for the opener, the Cowboys must balance his enthusiasm with caution. A premature return risks re-injury, which could sideline him for far longer than a game or two. The long-term health of their star cornerback is paramount, especially in a season where Dallas aims to contend in a competitive NFC East. The team’s coaching staff, led by defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, would be wise to ensure Diggs is 100% before thrusting him back into game action.
Diggs himself seems to understand the stakes. When asked about the biggest challenge in preparing his body for the season, he pointed to conditioning. “It’s different—working out with just yourself, and then having to cover someone, chase someone, run after the ball,” he explained. “I’m making sure I’m always running to the ball, always running, doing extra gasses, doing everything I can to be physically conditioned for the game itself.” This focus on building endurance and game-like intensity bodes well for his recovery.
Diggs also expressed excitement about playing in Eberflus’ defensive scheme. “Real comfortable, I like it a lot,” he said. “[Eberflus is] putting me in a lot of positions to make plays—it’s a really good system, and I like it a lot.” Eberflus’ aggressive, turnover-driven approach aligns perfectly with Diggs’ skill set. Known for his ball-hawking instincts and ability to create game-changing plays, Diggs could thrive in a system designed to maximize his strengths.
As the Cowboys prepare for their showdown with the Eagles, all eyes will be on Diggs’ progress. His return to practice is a major step, but his comments suggest he’s not yet certain about his Week 1 availability. The upcoming practices will be crucial, as Diggs works to regain his game speed and confidence in his surgically repaired knee. For now, Cowboys fans can take heart in his optimism and work ethic, but they’ll need to brace for the possibility that their star cornerback might need a little more time.