Cowboys' secondary will appreciate latest comments
One of the biggest contributors to the Dallas Cowboys during their dynasty in the 1990s, safety Darren Woodson, was recently named a Hall of Fame finalist. Of course, he took some time to take it in, considering all he had been was a semifinalist up to this point, but Woodson also acknowledged what the Cowboys […]
One of the biggest contributors to the Dallas Cowboys during their dynasty in the 1990s, safety Darren Woodson, was recently named a Hall of Fame finalist. Of course, he took some time to take it in, considering all he had been was a semifinalist up to this point, but Woodson also acknowledged what the Cowboys have in their secondary today.
Woodson had high praise for Trevon Diggs who is having another excellent season despite the dip in interceptions from his 11 in 2021. However, as expected, Woodson spoke on the Cowboys' three-headed monster at safety and gave a specific shout-out to a certain rising star.
“This is the best safety group I’ve seen this team have," said Woodson. "They’re versatile in a lot of different ways. Wilson makes plays. He reminds me a lot of Dawkins, especially close to the line of scrimmage.”
The Dawkins that Woodson is referring to is Hall of Famer Brian Dawkins who played against him for years as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles.
Wilson entered the 2022 season in a contract year, and he hasn't disappointed. The former sixth-round pick has raised his price by logging a career-high (and team-leading) 97 tackles, five sacks, nine quarterback hits, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, and an interception.
The only thing that Wilson has ever needed to do is remain healthy. When that is the case, he can cover on the back end and give great run support and is a weapon as a pass rusher from the safety spot.
"I am so freaking proud of that kid," Woodson said.
Rookie cornerback, Daron Bland, has taken full advantage of his opportunity with Jourdan Lewis and Anthony suffered season-ending injuries. Bland, not Diggs, leads the Cowboys with five interceptions, is tied for second in passes defended with seven, and his 52 tackles rank in the top eight, which is impressive considering he didn't take a defensive snap in five of the first six games.
Losing Lewis and Anthony meant the Cowboys' defense lost a starting outside corner and their top slot guy. Bland has shown he can play both, making him the perfect plug-in and has allowed him to get much-needed experience at multiple spots.
When giving out flowers on Thursday, Woodson couldn't help but recognize Bland and his ability to perform big so early.
“Hopefully he’s the starter next year because he’s played that well," Woodson said.
Wilson and Bland and both Day 3 picks, meaning they were looked at as long shots to make an impact on the NFL level. However, both have proven to be valuable assets to the Cowboys' defense, and they even have Hall of Fame talent like Woodson giving them kudos on their play.
Feature image via Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
