The Dallas Cowboys have every reason for a high level of frustration with corner Trevon Diggs. The veteran defender has struggled mightily this season to the tune of a 58.7 PFF grade and is currently out dealing with a concussion. This led to questions for owner Jerry Jones on the status of the corner with The Athletic's Jon Machota reporting the eyebrow-raising comments from the franchise owner.
" "I think questionable for this week and we won't go past that. But questionable this week, real questionable.""Jerry Jones
The piece of this comment that sticks out is Jones pointedly saying, "we won't go past that" when looking at projections beyond Week 8. It raises obvious questions as to just how bad the concussion might be or even if the Cowboys might be entertaining the idea of a trade. There is simply little reason to have a sense of urgency for Diggs to return based on his performance. While you always wish players a speedy recovery, there is an odd tone to Jerry's comments that is going to invite speculation.
Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones Offers Odd Update on Injured Corner Trevon Diggs
The most realistic avenue here is the fact that Jones isn't being hyperbolic, but that Diggs is dealing with a serious injury. However, the counter to this is pointing out the odd nature of concussions and all the hurdles that players must jump through to be able to return to the field. Jones having a timeline beyond this week seems unlikely. Inviting the idea that perhaps there is a bit of an ulterior motive that could be setting up a surprise trade of the Dallas corner.
It would make sense to give Diggs a change of scenery in as the corner is failing to live up to the five-year $97 million extension signed two seasons ago. As the Cowboys look to rebuild the defense and attempt to lock up receiver George Pickens beyond the 2025 season, there is every reason to shed cap space. Trading away Diggs fits under this umbrella, giving you far more ability to retool the defense and lock up your star receiver.
While it doesn't seem typical of the Cowboys to trade away a player who has been such a pivotal piece, the comment is simply too glaring to ignore. Jones is oddly explaining an injury situation that he would typically be far more positive about. Making it clear that Diggs isn't playing this week, and he has no wish to speculate beyond this.
This firmly opens the door to a possible trade that would give Diggs a chance to rebound and the Cowboys a chance to escape a contract that isn't aging well. It is a win for both sides and something Cowboys fans should be paying attention to as we continue to near the trade deadline.