Cowboys CB Trevon Diggs Joins Aaron Rodgers On Season Long Sidelines

Trevon Diggs has left the season's party, and the Dallas Cowboys defense is feeling it.

In a twist that no one saw coming, the NFL sees both the cornerback extraordinaire and New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers sidelined. Now, both teams face a daunting challenge as they navigate the season without two key players. 

The standout athlete faces a season-ending blow, tearing his left ACL during Thursday's practice. The injury occurred during a one-on-one drill, and Diggs, seen on crutches, swiftly underwent an MRI confirming the extent of the tear.

This is a major setback, seeing as the hurt star had notched an impressive 18 interceptions since the beginning of his NFL career in 2020, tying him with J.C. Jackson of the Chargers for the league lead.

According to ESPN, the 25-year-old's impact on the field this season is backed by NFL Next Gen Stats, revealing he is only allowed three catches for 31 yards on eight targets as the closest defender in coverage.

In fact, quarterbacks face a daunting 9.9 passer rating when throwing Diggs' way. With a forced fumble, an interception, three pass breakups, and six credited tackles over two games, his presence has been vital.

He is indeed a valuable player, especially after inking a lucrative five-year, $97 million contract extension with the Cowboys, featuring a hefty $21.25 million signing bonus and $42.3 million guaranteed during training camp.

While this is not his first encounter with being out of a game – he had missed four after a foot injury setback in 2020 – Diggs has only missed a single game in the past two years.

Despite the 2021 NFL interceptions leader's absence, the game has to continue, leaving the Cowboys with a few great options. The outlet reports that DaRon Bland, who had already showcased his prowess with an interception returned for a touchdown in the season opener against the New York Giants, could be moved to the outside cornerback spot. 

He would be opposite Stephon Gilmore, a key acquisition from the offseason trade with the Colts. At the same time, Jourdan Lewis is set to resume his role in the slot after returning to the field last week following a severe foot injury. 

Bolstering the cornerback lineup, the team can rely on Noah Igbinoghene, a 2020 first-round pick acquired from the Dolphins earlier this month, along with rookie Eric Scott. Although Nahshon Wright is currently on injured reserve with an ankle injury, there's hope for his return to action in Week 5.

The star player has taken to social media to thank fans and loved ones "for all the prayers" while also declaring that he will "be back and better."

In a shocking turn of events, the NFL star, who signed a monumental three-year, $112.5 million deal with the New York Jets in August 2023, saw his much-anticipated debut cut short by a ruptured Achilles just four plays into the season. 

Almost 48 hours after the injury and following the return of MRI results, Rodgers broke his silence, shedding light on the heartbreaking setback. The 39-year-old expressed his gratitude on Instagram:

"Thank you to every person that has reached out, called, texted, DM'd connected through a friend, etc. It has meant a ton to me, and I'll try and get back to all of you soon 🥹❤️."

The former Green Bay Packers player mentioned his intense emotional pain and sadness, acknowledging the outpouring of support and affection he received from fans and well-wishers.

In conclusion, Rodgers then requested, "Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I begin the healing process today. 🙏 ♾️ ❤️," before including a quote, "The night is darkest before the dawn. And I shall rise yet again." 

The loved professional athlete's fans flooded the comments section with messages of support, like this admirer who expressed optimism, "The rise is better than the fall, see you in 2024 💚." Another echoed the sentiment: "We love and support you @aaronrodgers12 💪. Wishing you a fast recovery." 

A third conveyed their affection with a note that read, "Love you 12💚 come back better!" Meanwhile, someone hailed him as the greatest of all time, stating, "GOAT. nuff said. Get well soon."