Trevon Diggs accepts a pay cut just to stay in Dallas as the Cowboys’ CB room becomes increasingly crowded with rising young talent
Arlington, Texas. 26/11/2025
The Dallas Cowboys are entering a major transition phase on defense, especially at the cornerback position – where competition has become more intense than ever. Stephon Gilmore is returning to form, DaRon Bland continues to evolve, rookie Alijah Clark is exploding as a rising star… And just when it seemed the Cowboys might have to make tough salary-cap decisions, Trevon Diggs stunned the entire NFL.
According to ESPN sources, Diggs – a former Pro Bowler and foundational piece of the Dallas defense – has accepted a significant pay cut to remain with the Cowboys, a team he describes as his “second family.” This decision is believed to stem from the increasingly crowded CB room, with young talents demanding larger roles.
A Cowboys executive shared:
“Not many players at Diggs’ level do something like this. It’s a clear signal he wants to be in Dallas long-term.”
Diggs, who led the NFL in interceptions during his breakout 2021 season, understands he’s returning from injury and that the team now has numerous quality options. But instead of seeking a big contract elsewhere – where he would certainly be pursued – he chose something many consider unrealistic in today’s market: staying in Dallas at all costs.
In a private team meeting, Diggs reportedly told the front office he “didn’t want to leave the Cowboys, even if it meant sacrificing financially to fit the team’s long-term plan.” The decision immediately created a powerful message in the locker room. Several young players viewed it as a lesson in loyalty and dedication to the team.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer expressed deep respect:
“Diggs isn’t just a playmaker. He’s the heart of our defense. His choice to stay shows the kind of culture we’re building.”
The emergence of Alijah Clark – widely considered one of the biggest surprises of the season – didn’t create discomfort for Diggs; instead, it energized him. Diggs shared that he wants to “lead the young guys,” aiming to build the strongest defensive unit since the days of DeMarcus Ware and Sean Lee.
For Cowboys Nation, the news of Diggs accepting a pay cut feels like a warm breeze in the middle of a tense season. It sends a message that this team is being built not just on talent, but on commitment and belief.
Dallas is climbing back into the NFC East race – and with a fully committed Trevon Diggs staying in town, the Cowboys’ defense may be stronger than ever.
