3 surprising defenders who helped the Cowboys win in Week 4
2. DaRon Bland, CB
Consider this game DaRon Bland’s campaign to do more than just special teams. Starting Cowboys CB Jourdan Lewis sustained a groin injury in the pregame. Even though he had no injury designation going into the contest, Lewis was seen on the sideline without a helmet when the game began.
After a stellar preseason campaign, 2022 fifth-round pick DaRon Bland was next in line. The rookie cornerback took over the nickel position and traded off throughout the game with Israel Mukuamu.
Up until Week 4, Bland was only used on special teams, participating in 38 special teams snaps. The 23-year-old was thrust into the spotlight on Sunday and he made his presence known with three solo tackles, one pass defended, and a late interception to help the Cowboys seal the win.
Cowboys rookie CB DaRon Bland likely learned soon before kickoff he would be the team's primary nickel today. He may have just sealed a win there with his first NFL interception. Bland played no defensive snaps in first three games.
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) October 2, 2022
The Fresno State product snatched his first career interception in his first defensive start. The pick gave Dallas the ball on the Washington 20-yard line and helped Brett Maher get another field goal to make the game basically unwinnable for the Commanders with four minutes left and a 15-point deficit.
Bland was an unexpected Hero in this game and was able to perform even with the last-minute nature of his start. Cowboys fans have been wanting to see Bland play on defense, but Lewis has been a regular starter for many games.
If Bland continues to play this well, he could make Quinn question that choice whenever Lewis is healthy enough to return.