Cowboys’ latest injury update gives Brian Schottenheimer the perfect chance to deliver a message to the team after a rough start

In its last two games, the Dallas Cowboys defense gave up a combined 748 passing yards and seven passing touchdowns to Russell Wilson (New York Giants) and Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears).

In other words, Cowboys defenders need help. They should be getting some very soon. Not only is the team expected to play recent free agent signing Jadeveon Clowney—a productive defensive end, albeit not a star player—but the team has a chance at getting back cornerback DaRon Bland for Week 4. Bland missed two games this season shortly after signing a four-year, $92 million contract extension.

Jerry Jones told 105.3 The Fan on Tuesday it was a good possibility Bland returned in time for the Green Bay Packers matchup. The update gives Schottenheimer a perfect chance to send a message to his team following a rough 1-2 start.

DaRon Bland should take one of his teammate's spots at outside cornerback

In case you missed it, Bland was playing at nickel before his injury as a result of Kaiir Elam's rise in training camp. By moving him back to the slot, where his career started, the Cowboys planned to get Elam, Bland, and Trevon Diggs on the field, which was presumed to be the best three-cornerback combo in defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus' hands. However, after three weeks of play, the coaching staff needs to ask Diggs and Elam to prove they deserve starting roles.

With the way both are playing, it's hard to argue Bland should take the slot and leave the outside spots to them. The Cowboys could have a better combo by playing him outside again while leaving backup Reddy Steward at nickel. Steward has looked like one of the best cornerbacks on the team even though he arrived after cutdown day. He leads the team in PFF coverage grade.

By making a decision like that, it would allow Schottenheimer to double down on his message to the team about consistency and having to earn their role with the team. If you're going to sit exciting rookie running back Jaydon Blue because ha hasn't been consistent, then Diggs and Elam should be treated the same. They have been bad and they have yet to face open competition. Even if they're bigger "names," part of the culture Schotty is trying to build is ignoring that.

It's tough to know how a backfield made up of Bland, Steward (slot), and one of either Elam or Diggs would perform, but the larger point is competition needs to be opened. The Cowboys haven't been good enough to leave things unchanged. Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus needs to shake things up.

On top of Bland's imminent return, Cowboys' third-round rookie Shavon Revel Jr. could enter the conversation soon. He'll be eligible to be activated from the NFI list next week. We'll see how he fits into the puzzle.

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