The Dallas Cowboys are coming off another disappointing season, and with no playoffs to prepare for, everyone’s eyes are focused on what they’ll do this offseason. The first may come on Black Monday as the Cowboys already appear to be pursuing a new defensive coordinator to replace Matt Eberflus. However, even if that move happens, as expected, several other areas need to be addressed ahead of the 2026 season.
While running back, edge rusher, and defensive tackle are high on the list, the Cowboys would be wise to focus their efforts on the cornerback position and a group that has leaned into the bust side of its “boom or bust” nature during the 2025 season.
Cowboys’ Cornerback Drama Headed for Breaking Point This Offseason
The Cowboys have had their fair share of defensive issues under Eberflus, but one of the key problems has been the drama at the cornerback position. Trevon Diggs appears to be a trade candidate after butting heads with Eberflus frequently this season and getting injured at his home while trying to install a TV. DaRon Bland also struggled after signing a four-year, $90 million contract extension this offseason, allowing a 110.8 passer rating on 77 targets, according to Pro Football Focus.
While Bland is locked in for next season, the chances of the team splitting with Diggs are much higher. Although letting him go would be a risk thanks to his aggressive nature that helped him record an NFL-high 11 interceptions in 2021, the Cowboys may deem him no longer worth the risk and go further down the line.
The Cowboys tried to add depth behind Bland and Diggs this season, but it resulted in a failed trade for Kaiir Elam. While third-round draft pick Shavon Revel Jr. was also thought to be a solution, he appears to be more of a project than the Cowboys anticipated, needing more work on his tackling after coming back from a torn ACL suffered during the final year of his collegiate career.
With so much going on, there’s a chance the cornerback room for the Cowboys could look very different by the time next season rolls around. The philosophy Dallas has against paying free agents, coupled with its current standing of $47.9 million over the projected salary cap for next season, likely removes the option of upgrading with a marquee name in free agency unless they find a cheaper player who can provide depth.
Dallas could also turn their attention to the draft, where LSU’s Mansoor Delane, Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy, or Clemson’s Avieon Terrell could be an option with one of their two first-round picks.
Whatever the solution, Dallas needs to find someone to fix their problems in the secondary, and it could lead to a move or two to upgrade their defense next season.