Stefon Diggs, the Dallas Cowboys cornerback, is optimistic about his return to full form after facing significant challenges over the past two years. And then at the beginning of this training camp, he found himself on the physically unable to perform list for the second consecutive year. This tragic turn of events has brought on a new, but terribly familiar, life for the gifted athlete.
In 2023 Diggs has had surgery to his left knee after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament. In truth, this injury cost him almost two full seasons. It fueled doubts about his ability to again compete at elite level. Then, in early 2025, he was given a chondral tissue graft, which proved to be the turning point of his recovery journey.
Even with these disappointments, Diggs was activated from the physically unable to perform list last summer. He was recently seven feet tall in a triumphant return for the All-Star season opener. He has shown determination to contribute to his team’s success, participating actively in games despite having played only 19 games since signing a five-year extension worth $97 million in 2023.
Currently, Diggs has intercepted 14 passes in his career, 11 of those coming in the year 2021 by itself. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 2021 and 2022. This feat not only displayed his coverage excellence, but it cemented his place as one of the league’s best cornerbacks. This year, he only has 20 total tackles through six games. He’s tacked on one TFL and two QB pressures. He has not logged a pick or pass defended this season.
Brian Schottenheimer, the Cowboys’ offensive coordinator, acknowledged Diggs’ ongoing adjustment period. He noted that Diggs needs to show that he is ready and be consistent week-to-week at the NFL level.
“He’s no different than Dak Prescott or Jake Ferguson or Kenny Clark. Just continue to do everything the right way. Thought last week was a good first step, and hopefully this week is an even better step, and if it is you’ll see him out there.” – Brian Schottenheimer
As Diggs looked back on his training and performance, he spoke with an air of certainty about his capabilities. He admitted he struggled, especially with a lack of practice reps.
“I didn’t get a lot of practice reps though, so that could also be an issue. But I feel like I got reps this week, got a lot of practice here and, yeah, [it was a] good week.” – Stefon Diggs
He seemed to communicate a deep inner conviction that he was capable of being a special player.
“I know what I’m capable of. I know what I can do. I’m not having a crisis of not knowing how to play football. I know how to play football. I know what I’m capable of. I know what skill set I have. It’s just all about showing it, putting it out there and making plays that I’ve always made.” – Stefon Diggs
Looking ahead to next offseason, Diggs would like to continue his tenure in Dallas. He loves life in the team’s diverse environment and especially loves the fanbase!
“Whatever happens, happens. I’m prepared for it and I would love to be here. I love everything in coming to Dallas, the fans, the relationships I’ve built here. But, you know, if that’s not what it is, that’s not what it is.” – Stefon Diggs
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