The Dallas Cowboys and their fans are facing growing anxiety over the extended absence of star cornerback Trevon Diggs. The player has been sidelined for several weeks, not due to an on-field collision, but because of a concussion sustained in an unusual at-home accident earlier in the season.
The Mystery Injury and Lingering Issues
While the team has kept the specific details of the accident under wraps, it occurred in Dallas and was severe enough to cause a significant concussion. Compounding this problem, Diggs has also been managing a separate knee issue, which has complicated his recovery process. This combination of injuries led the Cowboys to place him on the Injured Reserve (IR), mandating a minimum absence of four games as per NFL regulations.
Although he became eligible to return this week, the Cowboys' decision not to activate him means he will miss a fifth consecutive game. This move has intensified concerns among the fanbase regarding the severity of his condition and the timeline for his comeback.
Jerry Jones's Hopeful Yet Cautious Stance
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones recently addressed the media in an attempt to allay fears. When directly questioned if Diggs would play again this season, Jones responded with a characteristic, "Why not? Yes. Why not?" He added that the team is monitoring Diggs's healing progress and noted that the cornerback is "physically there in full shape for us." These comments project optimism but also implicitly acknowledge that the player needs more time.
The path to his return involves specific procedural steps. Diggs can be activated from IR at any time, but the Cowboys have not yet designated him for return. This means the earliest he can possibly play is in Week 14, and even that is not a guarantee. Once the team officially tags him for return, they will have a 21-day window to officially activate him, indicating that his return could still be several weeks away.
Rehab Progress and Long-Term Considerations
There is a positive development in Frisco, Texas, where Diggs has been working with the Cowboys' rehab group during practice sessions. Team coaches view this rehabilitation work as an encouraging sign that he is moving in the right direction. However, they are emphatic about not rushing him back, especially considering his injury history over the past few years.
Beyond the immediate season, the Cowboys are also considering Diggs's long-term future. His contract includes an option that the team can exercise after this season, and numerous reports from Dallas suggest they are likely to use it. For the moment, however, the singular focus remains on a careful, step-by-step approach to getting their key defensive player fully healthy and back on the field.
