He was the team’s third cornerback when the season began. DaRon Bland was one of the five finalists for NFL Defensive Player of the Year at the end of the regular season.
In the interim, Bland had an incredible journey. Not only did he lead the league in interceptions with nine, but he also made NFL history by being the first player to ever return five picks for a touchdown in a single season.
The highlight of Bland’s season—which also included being selected to the Pro Bowl and being named an All-Pro—was undoubtedly the couple of Pick-6s.
In retrospect, Bland stated it was somewhat “surreal” to consider how the season began and ended with him playing for the NFC roster at the Pro Bowl and then lined up among the league’s top players at NFL Honors.
“I just tried to have a lot of fun with it,” Bland said, acknowledging that he was a little let down that Cleveland’s Myles Garrett was the winner of defensive player of the year. “Just becoming a nominee was an honor. However, I really believed that I had a chance during my season. However, it was cool to simply be there.
He was “there” because of his nine interceptions in 2023, which raises the issue of what he intends to accomplish for an encore this season.
Though Bland claimed to be more concerned with the wider picture, it is possible that he is keeping his own personal objectives to himself.
“I’m thinking about a little bit of everything,” Bland stated. “After last season, it’s difficult to set some personal goals at this time. Right now, it’s critical that we concentrate on achieving our team objectives.”
And it begins with the defense, which under new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer will undoubtedly look different, especially in the secondary. Trevon Diggs is anticipated to start alongside after recovering from an ACL injury.
Bland. In addition to the impending draft, the Cowboys have two unrestricted free agents at cornerback in Stephon Gilmore and Jourdan Lewis.
Bland, though, expressed his lack of concern over how the lineups will “shake out” or even work with his new DC.
The last time Zimmer managed the Cowboys, Bland was only seven years old, and he acknowledged he wasn’t all that familiar with his methods in Minnesota.
Bland isn’t bothered by Zimmer’s harsh coaching style and intensity, but he has already heard about them.
“I think that’s fantastic. My dad was my hardest coach ever,” Bland remarked. “No one could ever be worse on me than him, in my opinion. I’m just eager to get going once more.”
