The Dallas Cowboys were dealt a major blow when star cornerback Trevon Diggs suffered a season-ending torn ACL in his left knee during Thursday’s practice. The injury occurred during a one-on-one period in practice, and Diggs was seen briefly inside the team facility on crutches before an MRI confirmed the tear.



Diggs’ injury is a significant loss for the Cowboys, whose defense is currently ranked No. 1 in the NFL in both yards allowed and points per game through two weeks. Since his NFL debut in 2020, Diggs has recorded an impressive 18 interceptions, tying him for the most in the NFL with J.C. Jackson of the Los Angeles Chargers.



Meanwhile, Cowboys Pro Bowl center Tyler Biadasz also suffered a hamstring injury during Thursday’s practice and is undergoing an MRI to assess the extent of the injury. As reported by Todd Archer of ESPN, source indicated that Biadasz is expected to recover to play against the Arizona Cardinals in their week 3 matchup.



<h2>Trevon Diggs Sidelined with Season-Ending ACL Injury: Impact and Adjustments</h2>



Diggs had a stellar start to the 2023 season, allowing just three catches for 31 yards on eight targets as the nearest defender in coverage, according to NFL Next Gen Stats data. Quarterbacks had a mere 9.9 passer rating when throwing in Diggs’ direction. He had also forced a fumble, intercepted a pass, recorded three pass breakups, and tallied six tackles in two games.



During training camp, Diggs signed a lucrative five-year, $97 million contract extension with the Cowboys, including a $21.25 million signing bonus and $42.3 million guaranteed. While he missed four games with a foot injury in 2020, Diggs had played in all but one game over the past two seasons.



With Diggs sidelined, the Cowboys have options to adjust their cornerback lineup, including moving DaRon Bland to the outside opposite Stephon Gilmore, acquired in an offseason trade with the Indianapolis Colts. Jourdan Lewis can return to his role in the slot after making a comeback from a significant foot injury last October, seeing 10 snaps in their previous confrontation.

Cowboys Cornerback Trevon Diggs Suffers Season-Ending ACL Injury

Cowboys Cornerback Trevon Diggs Suffers Season-Ending ACL Injury - thesportsdrops NEWS

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In the NFL, Micah Parsons‘ career is nothing short of legendary. His debut season earned him the title of Defensive Rookie of the Year, and he followed it up with another impressive year, finishing second in Defensive Player of the Year voting for a second consecutive season. As he continues to excel, it’s becoming clear that he’s on a path to becoming the NFL’s highest-paid defender.



Nick Bosa recently inked a contract extension that reset the market for elite defenders, securing a jaw-dropping $34 million per year. Parsons was quick to offer his congratulations to Bosa, acknowledging his outstanding performance. Moreover, the player knows that on-field achievements ultimately dictate financial success.



“Super happy for Nick Bosa, man,” Parsons exclaimed. “He truly showcased why he was the league’s best player last year. It provides motivation for all of us, not just in terms of his contract but in terms of his greatness. If you study his mindset and how he patiently lets the game come to him.”



<h2>Micah Parsons’ Super Bowl Dream: Chasing Excellence Beyond Dollars</h2>



Parsons takes a public-friendly stance, focusing on chasing on-field excellence rather than dollar signs in 2023 and beyond. Regarding a potential future contract extension, Parsons maintains a laid-back attitude. “I don’t even think about that,” he said. “As I’ve mentioned, I truly enjoy the game. I love what I do. Let everyone else talk about it.”



Parsons’ primary focus isn’t on dollar signs; it’s on achieving a Lombardi Trophy. He understands that on-field success is paramount and knows that if he achieves his Super Bowl goal in 2023, accolades and financial rewards will naturally follow. “I’ve been sleeping on it. I’ve been dreaming about it,” Parsons shared. “Late at night, I just think Super Bowl, Super Bowl, Super Bowl.



The Cowboys have been chasing Super Bowl glory for nearly 30 years, but Parsons can help them reach that pinnacle once again. “I know I’ve got to take each week as its own. Your preparation, work, and mindset—all of it leads to the Super Bowl. It doesn’t just happen by saying, ‘Hey, I want to go to the Super Bowl.&apos;”

Micah Parsons: Chasing Excellence, Not Just Dollars, on His Road to the Super Bowl

Micah Parsons: Chasing Excellence, Not Just Dollars, on His Road to the Super Bowl - thesportsdrops NEWS

The lead-up to the 2023 NFL preseason has witnessed a distinct choice made by a handful of starting quarterbacks, and among them is Dak Prescott. Unlike his peers, Prescott has opted to forgo participating in any preseason snaps, a decision he framed positively, indicating that it has facilitated an early focus on the pivotal Week 1 clash. Scheduled for September 10th, the Dallas Cowboys are poised to open their season against the New York Giants.



Prescott elucidated the strategic advantage of his situation, stating, “Knowing that I wouldn’t be involved in preseason activities enabled me to pivot my attention to studying their previous games, our historical encounters,” as relayed through Nick Harris of the team’s official website. Prescott highlighted the importance of preparation for the season opener, emphasizing the need to commence on a strong note.



While marquee quarterbacks such as Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Aaron Rodgers have either played or are slated to play in the preseason, it’s plausible that they, too, are directing their gaze toward their upcoming season openers. However, Prescott finds himself in a unique and advantageous position compared to the preceding years leading to the opening match.



<h2>Dak Prescott’s Preseason Strategy and Optimistic Outlook for Upcoming Season</h2>



Prescott’s involvement in preseason games has been sparse since 2019. The pandemic-induced cancellation of the 2020 NFL preseason was followed by Prescott’s recuperation from a fractured ankle in the 2021 preseason and a subsequent shoulder injury in the following preseason.



Echoing a stark contrast to his state a year ago, Prescott underscored his positive outlook, both personally and within the Cowboys’ context. He remarked, “I’m significantly more confident about our current situation. It’s a far cry from last year. Throughout the offseason, spring, and training camp, we’ve progressed considerably compared to where we stood at this time last year in terms of strategies and nuances. The upcoming week will be dedicated to meticulous fine-tuning before we dive in.”



Recent history has seen the Cowboys facing challenging season openers. Their last triumphant season opener dates back to 2019 when they overcame the Giants with a 35-17 victory. Subsequent season openers saw them faltering against the Rams in 2020 and the Buccaneers in 2021 and 2022.

Dak Prescott's Approach: Skipping Preseason for Week 1 Preparation

Dak Prescott's Approach: Skipping Preseason for Week 1 Preparation - thesportsdrops NEWS

According to ESPN‘s Dianna Russini, the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-3-experienced-players-who-could-still-be-traded-after-2023-nfl-draft-20230430-SPD-3611.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Minnesota Viking</a>s seem to be ready to cut ties with running back <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-most-disappointing-nfl-draft-picks-over-the-last-two-decades-20230426-SPD-3602.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dalvin Cook</a>. Money seems to be the issue that would drive a wedge between Cook and the Vikings. 



Cook has a $10.4 million base salary and a $14.1 million cap hit for the 2023 season, and the organization allegedly requested him to modify his compensation this season. The Vikings undoubtedly want to retain the 27-year-old, but they look willing to let him go in order to clear salary cap room. 



Although Cook’s choices may be limited by his contract, there are still many organizations who would be keen to sign him. If things don’t work out between the running back and the Vikings, CBS Sports have broken down his three potential destinations.



<h2>3. Arizona Cardinals</h2>



The Arizona Cardinals have enough salary cap room to sign Cook. They also need help at running back behind James Conner, who, because of his injury history, could use a player of Cook’s ability to help him stay healthy. With Cook’s potential acquisition, they would have one of the best offenses in the NFL.



<h2>2. Chicago Bears</h2>



First of all, the Bears have the salary cap room to sign Cook, who has caused the team plenty of trouble while playing for Minnesota. The Bears may use Cook to replace D’Onta Foreman, Khalil Herbert, and rookie Roschon Johnson in the backfield.



The Bears’ offense is a perfect match for Cook. Running behind a new and improved offensive line that features first-round draft selection Darnell Wright, he would have an opportunity to shine. In addition, Cook would be paired with quarterback Justin Fields, who is set for a big year.



<h2>1. Dallas Cowboys</h2>



It’s good knowledge that Jerry Jones enjoys making bold decisions, and such would be signing Cook. Putting the headlines aside, this change is rational from a staffing perspective. The Cowboys could use a guy of Cook’s level to complement Pollard’s performance. In addition, the 27-year-old RB would provide insurance in case Pollard decides to depart the team after the 2023 season.

NFL: Top 3 most likely destinations for Dalvin Cook in case of Vikings exit

NFL: Top 3 most likely destinations for Dalvin Cook in case of Vikings exit - thesportsdrops NEWS

A top defensive player in the NFL is trying to switch teams. According to ESPN, <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-top-3-most-likely-destinations-for-bijan-robinson-20230415-SPD-3578.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona Cardinals</a> safety <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-top-3-nfc-teams-that-need-to-make-excellent-draft-choices-20230413-SPD-3573.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Budda Baker</a> has asked to be traded after being named to the All-Pro team twice and the Pro Bowl five times.



Reports indicate that Baker notified the organization of his desire to be moved In February or offered a new contract that would make him the highest-paid safety in the NFL. The 27-year-old’s contract with the Cardinals has two more years to go. His projected earnings for 2023 and 2024 total just over $13 million and $14.2 million, respectively.



Baker, who was selected 36th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, has been named to his fourth straight Pro Bowl. If traded before the 2023 season, Baker might end up in one of these three places, as per CBS Sports.



<h2>5. Houston Texans</h2>



With new head coach DeMeco Ryans leading the charge, the arrival of Baker would be a huge boost for the club. The Texans have the salary-cap room and draft picks to pull off a deal of this size. Baker, a former NFL linebacker who served as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator for two successful seasons, seems like a good fit for Ryans’s system.



<h2>4. Pittsburgh Steelers</h2>



Starting strong safety Terrell Edmunds just left the Steelers and joined the Eagles in free agency, a major loss for Pittsburgh. With Baker on board, the Steelers would have the league’s greatest safety tandem in Minkah Fitzpatrick and Baker. This change would also let Patrick Peterson keep his starting cornerback position rather than transition to free safety.



<h2>3. Dallas Cowboys</h2>



The addition of Baker to Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs would make the Cowboys’ defense unstoppable. Dallas has the requisite means to facilitate such a trade. Malik Hooker, Dallas’ current starting free safety and a Pro Bowl performer, may be part of a package sent to Arizona by the Cowboys.



<h2>2. Philadelphia Eagles</h2>



After a devastating free agency, the reigning NFC champs have voids to fill. Despite acquiring Edmunds, who helped shore up a weakness, the Eagles still need to replace starting safeties Marcus Epps and Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, both of whom left through free agency. Baker would join an Eagles defense that also has Trey Edmunds, Darius Slay, and James Bradberry if he were to be traded to Philadelphia.



<h2>1. Green Bay Packers</h2>



Since Greg Williams, the Packers’ new defensive passing game coordinator, coached the Cardinals’ cornerbacks for the previous four seasons, Baker is a good fit for Green Bay’s need for a playmaking safety. The Packers have the financial resources to pull this off, ranking sixth in the NFL in cap space, per Spotrac.

NFL: Top 5 most likely destinations for Budda Baker in case of Cardinals exit

NFL: Top 5 most likely destinations for Budda Baker in case of Cardinals exit - thesportsdrops NEWS

When <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-dak-prescott-feels-cowboys-are-in-a-better-position-than-in-2021-2596-20220825-SPD-2596.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dak Prescott</a> suffered a thumb injury in Week 1, the outlook wasn’t good. The <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/super-bowl-champions-list-of-all-time-winners-215-20220503-SPD-215.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cowboys</a> were once again facing time without their star quarterback, and only a few thought Cooper Rush would keep them afloat.



But after four consecutive wins, many are already wondering whether Rush should continue to lead the offense even when Prescott is healthy. No one would have ever considered it, but the results are very impressive.



Cowboys owner <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-mike-mccarthy-gets-strong-support-from-cowboys-owner-jerry-jones-2364-20220726-SPD-2364.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jerry Jones</a>, like everyone in Dallas, is happy to see Rush doing so well when the team needed him the most. However, he made it clear that Prescott’s job is not in danger.



<h2>Jerry Jones says Dak Prescott will remain Cowboys QB1</h2>



“Dak is the No. 1 quarterback, Dak is our guy,” Jones said, via the Star-Telegram. “But isn’t it great that somebody came in and played well enough so that we can ask that question? That’s my point.



“Dak is going to get better this week. I have no idea whether he’ll line up against Philadelphia, but he’ll get better. And what’s inspirational here is that we’ve got a lot of good players here that didn’t play today that we’ve got help on the way with. Cooper Rush and the Dak Prescott syndrome, so to speak, is a fingerprint of this team.”

Will Cooper Rush bench Dak Prescott? Jerry Jones speaks up on Cowboys QB situation

Will Cooper Rush bench Dak Prescott? Jerry Jones speaks up on Cowboys QB situation - thesportsdrops NEWS

Having missed much of the 2020 season due to an ankle injury, Dak Prescott came back strongly in 2021 by leading the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-mike-mccarthy-gets-strong-support-from-cowboys-owner-jerry-jones-2364-20220726-SPD-2364.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cowboys</a> to the NFC East title. Dallas, however, fell short of <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-sean-payton-believes-hell-return-to-coaching-but-doesnt-know-where-2277-20220719-SPD-2277.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expectations</a> by losing in the Wild Card round.



This offseason, the team lost high-profile players in La’el Collins and Connor McGovern, who hit the free agency, while it also traded star wideout Amari Cooper. Therefore, many believe they won’t do better than in 2021.



But Prescott is certainly not one of them. Though the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/super-bowl-champions-list-of-all-time-winners-215-20220503-SPD-215.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cowboys</a> lost significant weapons, while divisional rivals like the Eagles strengthened themselves, the star quarterback feels they are in an even better place than last year.



<h2>Dak Prescott says Cowboys are in better position than last year</h2>



“Very, very optimistic,” Prescott said on Peter King’s podcast, via CBS Sports. “Because of the team we had last year and because of what we went through, the way that we’ve handled it moving forward, I think we’re in a better position this year than we were last year. And I know some guys have gone and some guys have left and went to other teams, but that’s the nature of this business. 



“What we have built here, the core, the leaders, mixed with a great group of young guys who are hungry to make names for themselves and get in this league running. I feel very, very confident about where we are and excited about where we are and am just ready to keep building and get this thing rolling.”

NFL News: Dak Prescott feels Cowboys are in a better position than in 2021 - thesportsdrops NEWS

NFL News: Dak Prescott feels Cowboys are in a better position than in 2021

If we talk about head coaches who head into the 2022 NFL season under the most pressure, Mike McCarthy will probably come to mind. After failing to lead the <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/super-bowl-champions-list-of-all-time-winners-215-20220503-SPD-215.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cowboys</a> past the Wild Card round in two years, many believe he’s in the hot seat ahead of his third season at the helm.



McCarthy was hired ahead of the 2020 season, in which Dak Prescott‘s injury ended up taking a toll on Dallas‘ playoff aspirations. The Cowboys did better in the next regular season, yet they suffered an early playoff elimination at the hands of the 49ers.



The franchise has bigger aspirations than a Wild Card exit, which is why this year could be crucial for McCarthy’s future. Jerry Jones, however, has given the head coach a huge vote of confidence amid his <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-sean-payton-believes-hell-return-to-coaching-but-doesnt-know-where-2277-20220719-SPD-2277.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">job security</a> rumors.



<h2>Jerry Jones believes Mike McCarthy is the right man for the Cowboys</h2>



“One of the issues I want to address directly because I guess it’s the one that probably have the most sensitivity about, and that is Mike and him coaching,” Jones said, via ProFootballTalk. “And I want to be real clear — he wouldn’t be sitting here today if I didn’t think he was the man to lead this team to a Super Bowl. He would not be. And I have choices.



“So that’s not meant to be insensitive to anybody, that’s a fact. And so you guys write about a lot of those choices and they were there for my use had I wanted them. And no, the guy to my right is who I’m convicted about. Have been. We certainly have had things we’ve addressed and the way we’ve addressed them in the offseason, I think we have successfully put together a staff that really, from this vantage point, gives us absolutely the best chance — with our makeup and our team — to get to the ultimate success. So I want to be real clear about that.”

Dallas Cowboys