When Jerry Jones speaks, it usually means something is about to get messy in Dallas. Recently, the Cowboys’ owner decided to publicly question Trevon Diggs’ work ethic. After another tough surgery (ACL), Diggs finds himself at the center of a storm, not just about his health, but about whether he’s putting in enough work to actually get back. So, Jones isn’t holding back with his latest warning shot.
“He’s working hard,” Jones said of his star cornerback. “That’s very important, because if he will be very good and diligent as to his rehab process, then he’ll get back quicker, and he will arrive when he does get back, sounder than if he has not worked as hard. He’s more subject to injury. He’s learned that one time. My point is, I have a lot of hope that his actual rehab and experience from the time before is really helping him out, and I think it has.”
Work ethic and rehabilitation
Let’s cut to the chase. Jerry hasn’t been shy about sending signals through the media. He’s made it clear that Diggs’ past approach to rehab was suspect. He flat out stated that above and the fact that Jones is saying this publicly means he wants this message to get through. That’s not just “owner-speak,” it's frustration coming to the surface.
Jones isn’t just worried about losing his best corner. He’s tired of seeing a top investment sidelined because of what he feels are preventable setbacks. Folks will be split on this issue. Some will say Jones is right to demand more while others may wonder if this kind of public pressure helps or just stirs the pot.
Frustrations within the organization
It’s not the first time Diggs’ rehab habits have rubbed folks the wrong way. Last year’s torn ACL and the recent cartilage surgery left a bad taste. Word is, that the team wants him to follow a specific plan, no shortcuts, no improvising. They’re laying down the law after seeing what happens when rehab isn’t taken seriously. The message is clear, do it right, or risk being replaced.
Dallas’ training staff hasn’t escaped scrutiny either. They’ve caught heat in recent NFLPA surveys, with players rating their care as average at best. That only raises the stakes for Diggs’ recovery. With so much on the line, nobody wants to see another high-profile injury mishandled, especially when one of the team’s top defensive assets is involved.
Diggs’ impact on the team is evident
Here’s the sting: When Diggs is healthy, he changes games. Even after missing time, he posted 35 solo tackles, 2 interceptions, and broke up 11 passes in 2024. His overall coverage ability and snap percentage show he’s still the Cowboys’ No. 1 choice in the defensive backfield.
But stats don’t tell the whole story. Dallas’ defense fell off without him, giving up more yards per attempt and fewer turnovers. In those lost games, the secondary looked out of sorts and slow. That’s how much the Cowboys need Diggs on the field.
Diggs is Dallas’ shadow corner since he follows the best WR, snap after snap in most cases. He played nearly every down before getting hurt. But Shavon Revel Jr., the Cowboys' third-round pick, is looming as insurance. Dallas also leans on DaRon Bland, but let’s be real, no one on the roster matches Diggs’ man-to-man skills or his knack for flipping the field with interceptions.
Long-term outlook for Trevon Diggs
There’s more at risk than just pride. Diggs is guaranteed $9 million this year, with his contract carrying long-term implications for the Cowboys’ cap. A lazy rehab means wasted money and a team that cannot count on its biggest defensive star outside of Micah Parsons.
The Cowboys can’t afford any setbacks. They’re betting on public pressure and maybe a little embarrassment to hopefully keep Diggs focused. But if he slips again, Dallas might start thinking about life after Diggs sooner than anyone thought possible.
Jerry wasn’t just venting; he was drawing a line in the sand for his All-Pro CB. This isn’t only about a player’s work ethic. It’s about the Cowboys’ identity and their shot at a real run in 2025. If Diggs answers the call, this Cowboys defense could get back to where it was a couple of years ago. If not, fans will continue to wonder if this team is built on hope or hard work. The clock is ticking in Big D and Diggs better be paying attention.