The Dallas Cowboys can still make the playoffs. It won't be easy, it definitely won't be pretty, and it won't even depend on them, but it's still a possibility. The margin for error will be quite close to zero, though.
That's why, even though he hasn't been performing well this season and he may not be in the coaching staff's good graces, Brian Schottenheimer might have no choice but to turn to Trevon Diggs for the final three games of the season.
Trevon Diggs Could Spark the Cowboys' Playoff Run
Diggs has been out for a couple of months after sustaining a mysterious concussion and a knee injury. While it sounded like the coaching staff was in no rush to get him back on the field, the secondary is clearly ailing right now.
On top of giving up several big plays in the loss to the Minnesota Vikings, Caelen Carson, Shavon Revel Jr., and Reddy Steward were all called for big penalties. As a veteran leader, getting Diggs back might be what this team needs to get a motivational boost, and he's going to hold everybody accountable on every single play.
Granted, Diggs has also struggled to keep up at times, and he's given up his fair share of big plays, but he used to be one of the prime ball-hawks in football. The Cowboys don't even need him to be a superstar; they need him to turn back the clock and close out the season on a high note.
Diggs' future with the organization is in question. He called out defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus right before his prolonged absence, and given his history of injuries, steep salary, and character, the Cowboys might not have many incentives to keep him around for much longer after the season is over. That being said, a strong end to the campaign might be just enough for reconciliation, even if it's not in the team's best interests in the long run.
Diggs' Pro Football Focus grade (58.7) ranked 65th among 108 eligible cornerbacks. When targeted by opposing QBs, Diggs has given up 191 yards and three touchdowns while allowing a passer rating of 148.7, so it's not like he was being a shutdown corner before his injury. That being said, he's a proven veteran, and this team clearly needs a spark to reignite the competitive fire that got them back in the playoff mix.
Turning back to Diggs isn't a perfect solution to the problem; that is not in question. However, given the imperfect way this season has gone in Dallas, it might be the only option this team has, whether they like it or not.