Trevon Diggs has continued to make progress in his recovery from January knee surgery. As team and player hoped, a stint on the Cowboys’ reserve/PUP list to start the campaign is unlikely.

Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said on Saturday (via The Athletic’s Jon Machota) the Cowboys plan to carry Diggs on their active roster to start the season. A move to the PUP list would have ensured at least a four-game absence, but as of last month the two-time Pro Bowler made it clear he intended to play at some point in September. That will be possible given this decision.

It would come as a surprise if Diggs were to suit up for Week 1 given his missed time throughout training camp and the preseason. Still, a return shortly after that point would be key for the Cowboys given their other injuries at the cornerback spot. Third-round rookie Shavon Revel has also been sidelined all summer while rehabbing the ACL tear which ended his college career. Revel is a candidate for the reserve/PUP list and thus a delayed start to debut campaign.

Caelen Carson‘s hyperextended knee is likely to lead to missed time in the regular season, something which adds slightly more urgency to Diggs’ return. The 2021 All-Pro will reprise his starting gig alongside DaRon Bland when back at full strength. In the meantime, trade acquisition Kaiir Elam is on track to handle a notable role on his second team.

Diggs has four years remaining on his 2023 extension. None of his base salaries beyond the coming season ($14.5MM, 19.5MM, $20MM) are guaranteed, however, meaning a pay cut agreement or a parting of ways could be in store next spring. How the 26-year-old fares this season will be key in determining his future. Diggs was limited to two games in 2023 and 11 last year. Another prolonged absence seemed to be in store when his surgery took place, but it now appears that will not be the case.