Cowboys Reveal 3-Word Response to DaRon Move

FRISCO — Depth has become a concern across the Dallas Cowboys' defensive formation. The issues on the edge, namely the absences of Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence, have left Dallas very thin on their front.

However, the secondary has taken significant blows as well with cornerbacks DaRon Bland and rookie Caelen Carson both missing time. Luckily, the star veteran could be on his way back to the field as soon as this week.

The Cowboys have opened the practice window for Bland who had surgery on his foot in August. He has progressed through rehab and the team is installing a "pitch count" on him this week.

Surely there is much anticipation to get Bland back on the field. He burst into stardom last season after intercepting nine passes and scoring five touchdowns off those interceptions, an NFL record.

Additionally, Bland and Trevon Diggs have not shared the field since Week 2 of last season. The younger players in this unit have stepped up admirably when both have been absent, but the goal remains to put the two on the field together.

However, should Bland even get that chance this weekend? Three words resonate from the front office as a response: "Ready to dress.''

Said COO Stephen Jones: "I think DaRon Bland has a real chance … I don't know if he'll play the whole game but I think he's ready to start mixing it up. Short of a real setback, DaRon should be ready to dress and help us on the defensive side of the ball and the secondary."

Dallas' defense is better with Bland on the field. And given their injury woes elsewhere, they could use all the help possible considering they face one of the league's best offenses this week.

Related: J-Lew PFF Grade; DaRon Bland Coming Back?

However, the Cowboys' bye week comes next week and the trip to San Francisco follows after that. The Detroit Lions are a formidable opponent, but there's little need to push him back for this game.

The prospects of facing Jared Goff and receivers including Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams are not ideal with their current group. But unless Bland can make it without restrictions, they should not attempt to force him back.

Nonetheless, Bland's return should be soon which remains the most positive takeaway. The Cowboys will enter the most grueling stretch of their schedule after the bye week and will need all their top talent available.