The Dallas Cowboys secondary faces challenges as key cornerbacks Trevon Diggs and Shavon Revel Jr. recover from knee surgeries sustained in the offseason. As the team looks to strengthen its defensive backfield, the addition of Julian Blackmon has emerged as a possible solution. Blackmon, a versatile safety with experience and a connection to Dallas defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, could add a dynamic presence to the Cowboys’ defense this season.
Blackmon’s Versatility and Skill Set
Julian Blackmon, turning 27 this August, is praised for his adaptability in the secondary. He can function effectively as a deep safety and contribute near the line of scrimmage. Over his last two seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, Blackmon recorded seven interceptions, showcasing his ball-hawking abilities. Last season, he accumulated 86 tackles, defended four passes, and intercepted three, making him a proven playmaker.
Jacob Infante of Pro Football Network highlights Blackmon’s potential fit with the Cowboys by noting,
“Julian Blackmon turns just 27 years old in August, so he still has plenty left in the tank. He’s a versatile defensive back who can cover as a deep safety and defend in the box at a pretty high level. He has seven interceptions between his last two seasons with the Colts.”
—Jacob Infante, Pro Football Network
Evaluating the Need and Fit in Dallas’ Secondary
Although the Cowboys’ immediate depth concerns lie at cornerback, Blackmon’s mix of coverage, tackling, and big-play capability could provide valuable reinforcement at safety. His presence might also offer Dallas additional flexibility in defensive schemes, bolstering the last line of defense. However, the Cowboys must balance this potential acquisition against existing players such as Donovan Wilson and emerging talents like Juanyeh Thomas, who appears ready to develop further in his role.
Connections to Dallas and Possible Destinations
Blackmon’s familiarity with Matt Eberflus, now Dallas’ defensive coordinator and formerly with the Colts, strengthens the possibility of a move to Dallas. Teams such as the Philadelphia Eagles, Kansas City Chiefs, and Carolina Panthers have also been mentioned as potential suitors for Blackmon, possibly on short-term deals to evaluate his fit long term.
“The aforementioned Eagles, Chiefs and Panthers could look at Blackmon on a one-year rental and see if he’s capable of becoming a long-term answer for them at safety. Keep an eye on Dallas as a landing spot, as former Colts DC Matt Eberflus is now the defensive coordinator there.”
—Jacob Infante, Pro Football Network
Outlook and What to Watch for in Dallas Camp
Despite the strong case for Blackmon’s value, questions remain about whether he is a clear upgrade over current options. The Cowboys’ camp will likely weigh Blackmon’s experience and compatibility within Eberflus’ system against the development of their younger defenders. If Blackmon joins, his knowledge of the coordinator’s defense could provide immediate stability amid injuries. Observers should watch closely for any signs that Dallas is moving to add this defensive back as the season approaches.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How good is Julian Blackmon?
A. According to PFF, Blackmon made 84 tackles by the end of the 2024 season. On 23 attempts, he let opponents complete passes 65% of the time and allowed 16.8 yards per catch. He also intercepted three passes and broke up one more. During the offseason, the Colts plan to sign free agent Cam Bynum to team up with Nick Cross and strengthen that spot.
Q. Is Julian Blackmon a free safety?
A. Blackmon came back as the main free safety and teamed up once more with Nick Cross, the starting strong safety.
Q. What are the injuries to Julian Blackmon?
A. The Colts picked Blackmon in the 2020 draft, but he hasn’t completed an entire season since. He’s had injuries like a torn ACL, a torn Achilles, and a shoulder problem.
Q. Is Julian Blackmon a strong safety?
A. In 2023, Blackmon had his best year as the Colts’ strong safety. He explored free agency in 2024 but re-signed with the Colts for one year. According to Rosenthal, Blackmon played most of the season despite a shoulder injury.