How a fifth-round draft pick rewrote the NFL record books
In short: In 2023, DaRon Bland achieved what few professional athletes ever do. After being selected 167th overall in the 2022 NFL draft, the Dallas Cowboys cornerback transformed from a depth player into a historic force, setting a single-season NFL record for interceptions returned for touchdowns.
Bland's ascent was rapid. After playing for Sacramento State and transferring to Fresno State, he entered the NFL as a fifth-round pick. Initially fighting for a role as a backup slot cornerback, he eventually moved into a starting position. His breakout 2023 campaign was nothing short of historic, where he led the NFL with nine interceptions and set a new single-season record by returning five of those interceptions for touchdowns. Before his professional success, he earned the Valley Oak League Defensive Player of the Year award during high school. He also played receiver and ran track during his time at Central Catholic.
This feat tied the record for most defensive touchdowns in a single season held by Ken Houston. His dominance in 2023 was further highlighted by his performance in November, where he was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Month. During that month, he achieved a rare streak, recording an interception return for a touchdown in four consecutive games, including a 66-yard return against the Washington Commanders. His remarkable run in November was bolstered by a standout performance against the Carolina Panthers. During that specific game, he recorded five combined tackles and an interception.
The financial stakes of his success became clear on August 31, 2025, when Bland signed a massive four-year, $92 million extension with the Cowboys. With a $50 million guarantee and a $23 million annual average, he became the sixth highest-paid cornerback in the league. Despite facing setbacks, including a stress fracture in 2024 and a foot injury in late 2025, Bland has cemented his place in NFL history. His career includes significant contributions to the Cowboys' 2023 postseason run. He started in a playoff victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: DaRon Bland
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