Packers Strengthen Defense by Claiming Trevon Diggs from Cowboys

The Green Bay Packers have enhanced their defensive lineup by claiming cornerback Trevon Diggs off waivers from the Dallas Cowboys. This decision comes after the Cowboys released the two-time Pro Bowl player on January 2, 2024. According to Brian Schottenheimer, head coach of the Cowboys, multiple factors contributed to Diggs’ release, including a recent incident where he opted to remain in his native Maryland for the holiday rather than fly back with the team after a victory over the Washington Commanders.

Diggs, who is 27 years old, would have entered free agency had he gone unclaimed. The Packers now assume responsibility for his base salary of $472,000 for Week 18, with an additional $58,823 if he is active for their upcoming game. This acquisition is particularly vital for the Packers, who have faced challenges in their defensive secondary. They placed safety Zayne Anderson (ankle) and cornerback Nate Hobbs (knee) on injured reserve on the same day Diggs was claimed.

Packers Adjust Roster Before Key Matchup

To compensate for their injuries, the Packers have made several roster adjustments. Safety Johnathan Baldwin has been promoted from the practice squad to the active roster, and cornerback Tyron Herring has been signed to the practice squad. Additionally, cornerback Kamal Hadden was placed on injured reserve earlier in the week. In a tactical move, wide receiver Bo Melton has switched positions to bolster the cornerback depth.

Coach Matt LaFleur indicated that some starters may be rested during their game on January 7 against the Minnesota Vikings. This decision could affect starting cornerbacks Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine, especially as the Packers prepare for the playoffs. Currently, Green Bay holds the seventh seed in the NFC playoffs with a record of 9-6-1, while the Vikings, with a record of 8-8, are no longer in playoff contention.

Trevon Diggs’ Career and Recent Challenges

Drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Diggs signed a five-year extension worth $97 million in July 2023, which includes guaranteed money following this season. Unfortunately, injuries have hindered his performance, as he has appeared in only 21 of a possible 50 games since signing that extension. This season, Diggs suffered a torn ACL two games in and was sidelined for the remainder of the year. He was activated from the physically unable to perform list in August after missing the final six games of the 2022 season due to a left knee injury.

In addition to his knee issues, Diggs reportedly sustained a concussion in an “accident at his home” following a Week 6 loss to the Carolina Panthers. Specific details regarding the incident were not disclosed by Schottenheimer or team owner Jerry Jones.

Following his recent return to action, Diggs has contributed significantly, recording a combined seven tackles in his last two games against the Los Angeles Chargers and the Commanders. Throughout the current season, he has achieved a total of 25 tackles across eight games, with six starts. Over his career, Diggs has played in 66 games, starting 63 of them, and has amassed 20 interceptions, 63 passes defensed, and 240 tackles. He earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2021, leading the league with 11 interceptions and returning two for touchdowns.

As the playoffs approach, the Packers’ strategic moves, including the addition of Diggs, highlight their commitment to strengthening their defense and enhancing their chances for a successful postseason run.