Trevon Diggs is in the spotlight — but not for the usual reasons.
As he rehabs from major knee surgery, he’s also facing the possibility of losing $500,000 if he doesn’t participate in team activities at a certain level. According to ESPN's Todd Archer, that figure comes from a clause in his contract that reduces his income if he fails to complete at least 84.375% of the Cowboys' offseason program.
This news also comes not long after team owner Jerry Jones made waves by suggesting Diggs ACL rehab from a previous injury wasn't attacked with adequate energy, intensity, and focus.
Even though Diggs is recovering from a January chondral tissue graft — a complex knee procedure involving transplanted bone and cartilage — the clause still applies. The fine print is clear: as long as Diggs completes his rehab under the supervision of the Cowboys training staff, all is fine.
And that’s likely what ensues next.
Cowboys officials have offered consistent reassurance, taking a stand beyond just questioning his previous effort level.
Coach Brian Schottenheimer says Diggs just had a check-in with team doctors and “all signs are positive.” COO Stephen Jones confirmed that Diggs is being diligent and is expected to return next week for mandatory minicamp.
Even Jerry, who previously expressed frustration about past rehabs, acknowledged that Diggs - who we're told has been spending him in Miami rather than, obviously, The Star - is working hard and likely learned from experience.
In total, Diggs has played just 13 of the Cowboys’ last 34 regular-season games due to injury. But if there’s one thing might want to avoid now is willingly give up half a million dollars.
This clause is not uncommon around here. It's "fair.''
And it's part of the reason that it's also "fair'' to assume that Diggs will show up for the three-day mandatory minicamp on June 10.
