Key Highlights
- Dallas Cowboys released their two-time Pro Bowl corner Trevon Diggs after he did not fly back from the Christmas Day game against Washington.
- Brian Schottenheimer took a high road approach, diminishing Diggs’ actions as one of many factors in the decision to release him.
- The abrupt release was seen as the culmination of multiple factors including Diggs’ health issues and poor play on the field.
- With one game left in the season against the New York Giants, the Cowboys are focusing on their future by potentially pursuing free agents like George Pickens, Javonte Williams, and Jadeveon Clowney.
The Dallas Cowboys’ Decision to Release Trevon Diggs
In a move that was inevitable given months of tension, the Dallas Cowboys officially released their two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Trevon Diggs just days before their final game against the New York Giants. The decision came after Diggs did not fly back from a Christmas Day game at Washington for personal reasons, despite being denied permission by the team.
The Strained Relationship
Brian Schottenheimer, who had to deal with Diggs’ behavior as both an offensive coordinator and a consultant under head coach Mike McCarthy, finally spoke out. He termed the abrupt release as “looking at the culmination of multiple factors,” including Diggs’ actions on and off the field. While Schottenheimer played down the significance of the incident, it was clear that Diggs had already been absent for much of the season due to various issues.
Multiple Factors in the Decision
Diggs’ health issues have long been a point of contention, as he missed 84 percent of offseason workouts while rehabilitating on his own after significant knee surgery. His contract also included a clause that cost him $500,000 in salary deductions and delayed his return to full practice. On the field, Diggs struggled, starting only six games out of eight.
The Cowboys would have likely let him sit on injured reserve had they not been forced to remove him after DaRon Bland was placed on injured reserve due to a foot surgery. Schottenheimer’s statement that “It is not the only reason this decision was made” highlights the complexity of the situation, with Diggs’ salary and his limited value on the field also being factors.
The Dallas Cowboys’ Focus on the Future
With just one game left in the season against the New York Giants, the focus now turns to the future. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is already looking ahead, prioritizing three potential free agents: wide receiver George Pickens, running back Javonte Williams, and defensive end Jadeveon Clowney.
Pickens and Williams
According to Jones, wide receiver George Pickens was the team’s leading receiver in receptions (92), receiving yards (1,420), and touchdowns (9) this season. Similarly, Javonte Williams led the team in rushing yards (1,201), rushing touchdowns (11), and total touchdowns (13). These players are likely to be key targets for the Cowboys as they look to improve their roster.
Clowney’s Impact
Defensive end Jadeveon Clowney has made a significant impact despite joining the team late. He totaled 5½ sacks and 30 quarterback hits in just 12 games, with five starts. While his playtime was limited due to injuries, Schottenheimer praised his ability to mentor younger players.
Championship Hopes
The Cowboys are also considering the future of their current roster, with the focus on getting back into playoff contention next season. As Jones noted in his parable about a gold miner swinging for that potential strike, the team remains committed to finding that winning formula.
With one game left and a chance to secure a win against the Giants at MetLife Stadium, the Cowboys are ready to finish their 2025 season on a high note. The future is uncertain, but with key players like Pickens, Williams, and Clowney in mind, they are positioning themselves for success.