The Dallas Cowboys enter a pivotal 2025 season with first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer on the helm, and one participant may emerge as a focus for the franchise’s defensive aspirations.
DaRon Bland, the All-Professional cornerback getting into the ultimate yr of his rookie contract, carries the burden of expectations after a record-breaking 2023 marketing campaign that established him as one of many league’s premier defensive backs.
The timing of his newest social media submit suggests Bland understands precisely what’s at stake.
NFL reporter Brandon Loree captured the cornerback’s mindset heading into coaching camp with a easy however telling 2-word message.
“Profession yr,” Bland posted.
#Cowboys DaRon Bland on IG forward of coaching camp:
“Profession yr 👏🔥💯”
Hopefully the previous All-Professional can return to type this season. Dallas’ protection may actually use it.
(📸: @DaRon_Bland on IG) pic.twitter.com/PaHXqtyQ8S
— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) July 20, 2025
That confidence stems from each his confirmed observe file and the chance that lies forward.
Bland rewrote NFL historical past in 2023, main the league with 9 interceptions whereas returning 5 for touchdowns to set a brand new single-season file.
Nevertheless, a stress fracture in his foot derailed his 2024 marketing campaign, limiting him to simply seven video games and not using a single interception.
Now absolutely wholesome, Bland faces a reworked secondary that locations him on the middle of Dallas’s defensive plans.
With Trevon Diggs nonetheless working again from knee surgical procedure and Jourdan Lewis departed in free company, the Cowboys want their confirmed playmaker to step into an expanded function.
Bland has already proven versatility throughout OTAs, taking snaps within the slot to switch Lewis whereas sustaining his exterior obligations.
Brian Schottenheimer has made it clear the workforce will merely deploy their “greatest 5” defensive backs, giving Bland the pliability to affect video games from a number of positions.
The cornerback room faces depth issues with rookie Shavon Revel Jr. and Kaiir Elam nonetheless recovering from accidents, making Bland’s well being and management important to Dallas’s defensive success.
NEXT: Particulars Emerge About Micah Parsons’ Standing For Coaching Camp