No Contract Extension Talks Yet for Cowboys CB DaRon Bland
The Dallas Cowboys have not yet initiated contract extension discussions with cornerback DaRon Bland, according to a report by Clarence Hill Jr. This news comes as Bland continues to establish himself as one of the NFL’s premier defensive backs, raising questions about the team’s long-term plans for the young star.
Bland’s Rise to Prominence
DaRon Bland, a fifth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, has quickly emerged as a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ secondary. Known for his ball-hawking ability, Bland led the league with nine interceptions in 2023, including an NFL-record five pick-sixes. His knack for creating turnovers earned him a Pro Bowl nod and First-Team All-Pro honors in only his second season.
Despite a foot injury sidelining him for part of the 2024 season, Bland has returned to form, continuing to showcase his elite coverage skills and playmaking instincts. With his rookie contract nearing its end, many expected the Cowboys to prioritize securing Bland’s future in Dallas.
Contract Talks on Hold
According to Clarence Hill Jr., a veteran Cowboys beat reporter, no discussions regarding a contract extension have taken place between Bland’s representatives and the Cowboys’ front office as of April 24, 2025. This development is surprising given Bland’s on-field production and the escalating market for top-tier cornerbacks.
The Cowboys have a history of delaying contract extensions for key players, often allowing them to play out their rookie deals before committing to long-term contracts. However, with Bland eligible for an extension and the cornerback market continuing to rise—evidenced by recent deals for players like Jalen Ramsey and Patrick Surtain II—the lack of talks could complicate Dallas’ salary cap planning.
What’s Next for Bland and the Cowboys?
The absence of contract discussions does not necessarily indicate a lack of interest from the Cowboys. The team may be focusing on other priorities, such as navigating the 2025 offseason or addressing extensions for other stars like quarterback Dak Prescott or wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. However, delaying talks with Bland risks driving up his price tag, especially if he continues to perform at an All-Pro level.
For Bland, the focus remains on the field. At 25 years old, he is in prime position to command a lucrative deal, whether with Dallas or elsewhere. If no extension is reached before the 2026 season, Bland will be set to hit free agency, where he could attract significant interest from teams seeking a shutdown corner.
Fan and Analyst Reactions
The news has sparked varied reactions among Cowboys fans and NFL analysts. Some fans expressed frustration on social media, urging the team to lock up Bland before his market value skyrockets further. Others believe the Cowboys are playing a strategic game, waiting to assess Bland’s performance over a full season post-injury before committing.
Analysts, meanwhile, have noted that the Cowboys’ cautious approach could backfire. With the salary cap projected to increase in 2026, top cornerbacks are likely to command contracts exceeding $20 million annually. Securing Bland now could save Dallas millions in the long run.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 NFL season progresses, all eyes will be on DaRon Bland’s performance and any developments regarding his contract status. The Cowboys face a critical decision: invest in one of the league’s best young defenders now or risk losing him to a competitive free-agent market.
For now, Bland remains a key piece of Dallas’ defense, and his play will likely force the front office’s hand sooner rather than later. Cowboys fans can only hope the team acts swiftly to ensure their star cornerback remains in Dallas for years to come.