Cornerback Trevon Diggs had some rough moments as a rookie in 2020, which is to be expected playing his position. However, he did manage to lead the Dallas Cowboys in interceptions (3) and passes defended (14) despite missing four games with a broken foot. In 2021, the former second-round pick has taken his game to the next level.
Diggs currently leads the NFL with six interceptions and 10 passes defended. That’s impressive for sure, but he’s also been a nightmare to throw against on the most critical downs. According to Pro Football Focus, Diggs has only given up one reception on nine targets and has registered two interceptions when the Cowboys defense is in 3rd and 4th down situations this season.
Having the ability to eliminate the opposing team’s top wide receiver during these crucial moments is huge. This means that Diggs is making quarterbacks go through their progressions more. That’s exactly what you want in a cornerback because it can create opportunities for sacks due to quarterbacks holding on to the ball longer.
Don Bishop set the team record in 1961 by recording an interception in each of the team’s first five games. Being the only cornerback with an interception in every game this season, Diggs has matched that record, and it puts him in a great position to break the team record of 11 interceptions set by Everson Walls in 1981 with 12 games left to play.
For this to happen, quarterbacks would have to keep testing Diggs, and that’s something he hopes continues as the season goes on.
“I’m trying to get everything I can,” Diggs said recently. “I hope (the QBs) don’t stop throwing at me. I feel like I still haven’t proven anything. I just got to keep capitalizing on the opportunities.”
There’s still a long way to go in the 2021 season but no cornerback is playing better than Diggs right now and he’s making plays when it matters the most.
