FRISCO - Days removed from the Dallas Cowboys' 2023 Week 2 win over the New York Jets, the team encountered a devastating blow when Trevon Diggs suffered a non-contact ACL injury at practice.
Nearly a year later, the star of the Cowboys returned to the field, looking like he had not missed a beat. But it certainly was not an easy road back.
Of course, the physical rehabilitation, recovery and progression back to football had its toll. But for Diggs, he missed most the fraternal aspect of his position.
Rekindling those feelings Sunday ahead of kickoff against the Cleveland Browns brought those emotions about of him.
"Tears of joy," Diggs said. "Just thankful to be back. I've been gone for so long. You take your love away, and just…I don't know. I had a lot of emotions. I was just thankful to be back."
"Being able to be out there again with my teammates, I missed them so much. Words can't explain it. I really love this game. I really love my brothers. Being away from them was the hardest part. Me being out there brought me a lot of joy."
That emotion and gratitude translated to his play. Diggs finished with five tackles, two pass deflections and a remarkable tip-drill interception on a play that seemingly put the Browns away for good.
While the Cowboys originally planned for Diggs to pair with DaRon Bland on his opposite side, the injury to his ballhawk protégé will put those hopes on hold for now.
But the presence of the veteran corner was certainly a welcome sight, uplifting the defense's play and morale. Diggs and the Cowboys will look to continue their hot start in Week 2 against the New Orleans Saints.
