CLEVELAND — It's been almost a year since Trevon Diggs took the field in an NFL game and almost a year since the most trying time of his young football career hit his reality.
A torn ACL in a weekday practice ended his 2023 season just two weeks in and thrusted him into a surgery and rehab process that finally culminated with his return to action on Sunday in a 33-17 win against the Cleveland Browns.
When Diggs took the field pregame, he was overcome with emotion — eyes watered and tears leaking down his face as he embraced teammates and coaches. For him, it was a happy moment and a reminder of his journey.
"Tears of joy," Diggs said. "Just thankful to be back. I've been gone for so long. You take your love away, and just…I don't know. I had a lot of emotions. I was just thankful to be back."
Late in Sunday's game, Diggs did what he has done so well for the Cowboys since being drafted in 2020, intercepting a pass from Deshaun Watson that halted a promising Cleveland drive. When addressing if it was the culmination of his return, Diggs was a little more conservative.
"Hopefully," he said with a laugh.
Diggs was rarely tested in Sunday's win, as his change of direction, speed and ball skills were all on full display in the win. In a new system under Mike Zimmer, it was a strong return to the field.
"We've all been together," Diggs said. "It doesn't matter what defense we're playing, we know how to adapt…We just have to stay grounded and stay focused."
Even with the interception, returning to the field alongside his teammates was the biggest joy for Diggs on Sunday.
"It means a lot," he said. "Being able to be out there again with my teammates, I missed them so much. Words can't explain it. I really love this game. I really love my brothers. Being away from them was the hardest part. Me being out there brought me a lot of joy."
