Packers claim Trevon Diggs,But Future Remains Uncertain
The green Bay Packers have claimed cornerback Trevon Diggs off waivers from the Dallas Cowboys,addressing a critical need in their secondary. However, the move comes with financial versatility for the Packers, as the contract carries no remaining guaranteed money. This allows them to evaluate Diggs and potentially release him after the season without significant salary cap repercussions.
Here’s a breakdown of the situation:
* Waiver Claim: Green Bay successfully claimed Diggs, inheriting the remaining portion of his five-year, $97 million contract.
* Financial Implications: The Packers will only be responsible for one week’s pay ($472,000) plus an additional $58,823 if he’s active for Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings.
* No guarantee: Crucially, there’s no guaranteed money left on the deal, providing the Packers with a low-risk opportunity.
Why Did Dallas Release Diggs?
Dallas’s decision to waive Diggs stemmed from a confluence of factors, according to Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer. His refusal to fly home with the team after the Christmas game against the Commanders was a contributing element, but not the sole reason.
schottenheimer emphasized that team protocols weren’t followed, and the situation was more complex than a simple holiday request. Prior to the incident,Diggs had already expressed concerns about the defensive scheme,specifically wanting to play more man-to-man coverage.
Furthermore, a concussion sustained from an at-home accident led to a stint on injured reserve, complicated by issues with his right knee.The Cowboys where hesitant to activate him until he demonstrated full commitment to his recovery.
Diggs’s Performance and Packers’ Needs
Diggs has had a challenging season, appearing in only eight games due to a concussion and a knee injury. He hasn’t recorded an interception or a pass breakup, and his only tackle for a loss came in a Week 4 tie against Green Bay.
You might recall that the Packers have been searching for cornerback depth as releasing Jaire Alexander earlier in the season. Adding to the challenge, free agent signing Eric Stokes has struggled with knee injuries since the preseason.
To bolster the position, the Packers recently elevated:
* Shemar Bartholomew
* Jaylin Simpson
* Tyron Herring (to the practice squad)
What’s Next for Diggs and the Packers?
It remains to be seen if Diggs will be active for Sunday’s game against the Vikings. The Packers are clearly addressing a need,but his performance and fit within the team’s defensive system will be closely scrutinized.
Ultimately, this claim provides green Bay with a chance to assess Diggs with minimal financial risk, potentially adding a valuable piece to their secondary for the future. However, you should expect a careful evaluation before any long-term commitment is made.
Disclaimer: This article provides details based on publicly available reports from ESPN and other sources as of January 3, 2024. Situations can change rapidly in the NFL.
