'Nothing Changes!' Caelen Carson Ready for Browns

FRISCO — The complexion of the Dallas Cowboys defense, specifically their secondary changed dramatically a week ago. Reports of DaRon Bland's foot injury surfaced, leaving the Cowboys without their 2023 breakout star for likely the first half of the season.

That means rookie Caelen Carson slots into the starting role alongside All-Pro Trevon Diggs. The Cowboys will have to wait to unveil the partnership of two of the NFL's top playmaking corners, but that does not change the excitement for their budding prospect.

Carson shined throughout training camp and into the preseason, making him a clear choice to fill in during Bland's absence. For a young player, such an abrupt shift in responsibility can prove a daunting task, though Carson looks ready for the challenge.

"I'm ready. … If you make it bigger than what it is, then it's gonna be a big moment for you. It's gonna be [like] any other game. I've been playing football all my life, so I feel like nothing changes," he said .

The Cowboys announced a series of jersey number changes over the weekend. Carson will wear No. 21, a number befitting famed Cowboys corner Deion Sanders. While it may not be his intention, it certainly adds to the narrative around him.

While the loss of Bland remains far from ideal, the Cowboys firmly believe in Carson's ability. But he will be tested right out of the gate in Week 1.

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Without such high acclaim, the Cleveland Browns' receiving core has a potent pair of pass catching threats in Amari Cooper and Jerry Jeudy. The learning curve for the rookie will need to be an exponential one contesting these matchups in a hostile environment.

However, he has made it clear the lights will not be too bright for him. That is necessary mindset not only for his first start, but into this season and tenure with the Star affixed to his helmet.

The Cowboys and Browns will kickoff on Sunday at 3:25 p.m. on FOX.