DaRon Bland is demonstrating his value as a versatile cornerback during the Dallas Cowboys’ 2024 offseason training activities (OTAs) at The Star, stepping into the slot role amid injuries and uncertainty within the team’s secondary. Despite ongoing contract discussions, Bland continues to prove he is vital to the Cowboys’ defense, capable of excelling both inside and outside the formation.
The Cowboys are facing challenges in their cornerback lineup, with Trevon Diggs still recovering from a major knee injury, and 2025 draft pick Shavon Revel Jr. also sidelined by a knee issue. Meanwhile, the recently acquired Kaiir Elam has yet to establish himself as a reliable contributor, and fifth-round pick Caelen Carson endured a difficult rookie season. This mix of setbacks has forced the team to rely heavily on Bland’s adaptable skill set to fill multiple roles and stabilize the defense.
Why Bland’s Role Shift Does Not Diminish His Value
Though Bland has been receiving reps in the slot, this adjustment is not a sign he has lost his standing as a top cornerback. The shift reflects the Cowboys’ need to solve personnel issues and maximize the talents of their most complete defender. Bland’s ability to perform at a high level both on the outside and inside makes him uniquely valuable in today’s evolving NFL landscape.
Some fans and analysts have suggested that Bland playing slot corner could be used against him during his contract negotiations, as slot corners traditionally earn less than their outside counterparts. For example, Jordan Lewis, a recent Dallas cornerback who signed with Jacksonville, secured a three-year, $30 million contract that remains the highest nickel corner deal in the league. Yet, top outside cornerbacks routinely earn upwards of $30 million annually, illustrating the substantial pay gap based on positioning.
However, this outdated market view is changing as offenses increasingly push their best receivers into the slot. Teams like the 49ers and Rams now frequently deploy physical wide receivers in condensed, run-heavy formations, demanding that slot corners handle far tougher matchups. The slot defender must often operate close to the box, engage in run fit responsibilities, and cover receivers in motion without the benefit of being able to physically press due to alignment rules.
The Growing Complexity of the Slot Corner Role
Covering in the slot presents unique challenges: navigating traffic, redirecting receivers without sideline help, and defending against routes that flow both ways across the field. Slot corners must show physicality, awareness, and agility to succeed in these demanding circumstances. The NFL’s emphasis on physicality and versatility means that the distinction between inside and outside corners blurs in terms of impact and difficulty.
DaRon Bland’s proven dominance in both positions illustrates his critical role in the Cowboys’ defense. His 2023 season earned him first-team All-Pro honors and fifth place in Defensive Player of the Year voting, after he led the league with nine interceptions and set an NFL record by returning five picks for touchdowns. As Bland enters a contract year, his performance and positional flexibility give Dallas leverage but also increase his value significantly in free agency.
Contract Negotiations and the Stakes Ahead
While Cowboys owner Jerry Jones may wait to see how the market unfolds before agreeing to a deal worth over $20 million annually, undervaluing Bland because he “only” plays slot corner would be a strategic mistake. Rival teams looking to strengthen their secondary would gladly pay a premium for a player with Bland’s skill set and proven playmaking ability.
His adaptability, physicality, and coverage skills make Bland far more than just a slot corner—he is a defensive weapon capable of changing games in multiple roles. The Cowboys would be wise to recognize his full value as they navigate the upcoming extension talks.