When the Dallas Cowboys stepped onto the field in Charlotte for their Week 15 matchup last season, they were missing a crucial piece. Cornerback Trevon Diggs, who tore his ACL during a 2023 practice, was already sidelined, with surgery on his left knee pushing his future into 2025. Knowing Diggs’ recovery would take time, Jerry Jones and the front office made sure to address the position at the 2025 NFL Draft.
That’s where Shavon Revel Jr. came in. Drafted 76th overall, the East Carolina product seemed like a smart investment – a tough, athletic corner with a story built on grit. Coming from Reagan High School in North Carolina, Revel made history as the first player from his school to get drafted. Everything looked like it was falling into place for Dallas… until this week.
On Friday, Stephen Jones shared some troubling news. Speaking to reporters, he said the team expects Revel to start training camp on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. RJ Ochoa of Blogging the Boys first reported the update, and it’s not what Cowboys fans wanted to hear.
A risk that’s starting to feel even riskier
Revel, once projected as a potential first-rounder, suffered his own ACL tear during a college practice last September. Surgery by Dr. Dan Cooper – the same surgeon trusted with Diggs’ knee – helped stabilize his draft hopes, but concerns about his readiness never fully disappeared.
While the Cowboys hope Revel will be cleared before training camp in Oxnard ends, the rookie himself isn’t shy about his current limitations. Speaking after the draft, Revel said he’s only running in straight lines so far and hasn’t been cleared for cuts, heavy lifting, or full-speed breaks, per The Dallas Morning News.
“I can’t lift heavy yet,”Revel admitted. “I’m working on progressing into more stuff, but right now it’s about taking it slow.”
It’s a tough spot for a team that desperately needs a reliable body opposite DaRon Bland. Diggs’ recovery is still uncertain, and now Revel’s ability to contribute early looks just as murky. For now, the Cowboys are betting on patience – but patience doesn’t win football games.
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