The Dallas Cowboys are heading into a make-or-break season, and the pressure is on. After a disappointing 7-10 finish, they’ve retooled with a healthy Dak Prescott and added George Pickens to the offense. But behind all the preseason excitement is a major storyline developing on the defensive side: DaRon Bland’s time in Dallas might be running out.
Yes, you read that right.
Bland, one of the league’s most electrifying cornerbacks and a 2023 All-Pro, is heading into the final year of his rookie deal. And according to Pro Football Focus’ Mason Cameron, it doesn’t look like the Cowboys are planning to keep him. Cameron recently named Bland the No. 1 free agent CB for 2026, noting that there have been no talks of an extension, and the team just drafted a cornerback on Day 2.
Let’s not forget, Bland’s rookie deal was an absolute bargain; $3.97 million for four years. He made a huge splash last season with nine interceptions and an NFL-record five pick-sixes. But now? He’s due for a massive payday, and the Cowboys are already on the hook for Trevon Diggs’ $97 million extension signed in 2023.
There’s a good chance Dallas just can’t afford to keep both.
More On The Cowboys’ DaRon Bland
According to Spotrac, Bland is projected to earn upwards of $94 million over four years in his next deal. That would make him one of the highest-paid cornerbacks in the NFL, no small ask for a team with serious cap considerations and multiple stars to manage.
So what’s next?
Well, unless something drastic changes, it looks like the Cowboys are preparing for life without DaRon Bland. They’ve already made moves that signal a future shift at cornerback, and while Bland’s departure isn’t set in stone, the writing is on the wall.
Of course, a lot can happen during the 2025 season. If Bland stays healthy and continues to play at an elite level, he’ll command top dollar in free agency. On the flip side, another injury could lower his value, but that’s a risky game for both player and team.
Either way, Cowboys fans should start preparing for the real possibility that one-half of their star CB duo might be wearing another jersey come 2026.
What do you think, should the Cowboys pay up to keep Bland, or is it time to move on? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. And follow if you haven’t.
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