FRISCO, Texas – Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys have successfully avoided a significant issue in their secondary by re-signing All-Pro cornerback DaRon Bland to a four-year, $92 million extension before practice on Sunday. This proactive approach stands in contrast to the previous situation surrounding Micah Parsons.

Bland, known for his reserved demeanor, secured his position before entering the final year of his rookie contract. Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott mentioned, “It’s about actions more than words. Statistics show that he leads the team despite being the quieter type.”

After the loss of nickel corner Jourdan Lewis to the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Cowboys faced a substantial void. Bland transitioned from being a fifth-round pick to a standout after being thrust into playing time due to Lewis’ injury, recording five interceptions in his debut season. Last year, he excelled as an outside corner, claiming a league-high nine interceptions, five of which were pick-sixes, setting a single-season record.

As the Cowboys prepare for the new season with new cornerback Kaiir Elam, they are positioning Bland strategically for upcoming challenges, especially with Trevon Diggs recovering from injury. Bland’s contract extension places him among the highest-paid cornerbacks in the league, a move that solidifies his crucial role in the team’s defensive schemes.

In terms of performance, Bland has not only showcased his ability to intercept passes, ranking second in the league with 14 interceptions since 2022, but he has also developed valuable instincts attributed to his experiences alongside players like Stephon Gilmore.

Now, the focus is on how Bland will adapt with the evolving dynamics of the Cowboys’ defense as they head into the 2025 NFL season.