OXNARD, Calif. — The intensity at Dallas Cowboys training camp took another step forward Monday as players suited up for the first padded practice, but for cornerback DaRon Bland, it represented something more meaningful: another milestone in his return to full football.
After spending time away from the field while recovering from injury, Bland said getting back into full-contact work felt like a long-awaited moment.
“It felt amazing,” Bland said. “I haven’t been in pads in a while, so it felt good.”
Bland enters the 2026 season looking to regain the form that made him one of the NFL’s most productive defensive backs. Rather than focusing on past accomplishments, the veteran cornerback said his attention remains on preparing himself for the regular season one day at a time.
“My goal is just to keep preparing for the season,” Bland said. “I feel like I haven’t been on the field for a while, so I’m just trying to get back to myself.”
As one of the experienced voices in Dallas’ secondary, Bland has embraced a leadership role in a defensive backs room filled with talent and competition. He described the atmosphere throughout camp as energetic, with players feeding off one another and constantly exchanging ideas.
“We’ve got a lot of energy,” Bland said. “Everybody has the same mindset and wants to make plays. We’re just trying to bounce ideas off each other.”
While the physical recovery has been a major part of his journey, Bland acknowledged the mental side can be just as challenging. Staying patient and maintaining confidence were essential during his rehabilitation.
“It’s knowing you’re going to get back on the field,” Bland said. “You take it day by day and don’t get down on yourself.”
Cowboys fans made it clear they were excited to see Bland back in action during Monday’s practice, offering loud support throughout the session. The veteran defensive back appreciated the encouragement as he continues working toward opening day.
With Dallas’ defense expected to be one of the team’s strengths this season, Bland’s return adds another proven playmaker to a secondary that continues to build chemistry during training camp. If Monday’s first padded practice was any indication, the veteran cornerback is steadily moving closer to the level of play that has made him one of the Cowboys’ most valuable defenders.
