Rookie Caelen Carson Delivers Stunning and Powerful Debut Amid DaRon Bland’s Injury
Just hours before their final preseason game in late August, the Dallas Cowboys received significant news that All-Pro cornerback DaRon Bland would be sidelined for 6-8 weeks due to a foot fracture sustained late in training camp.
Attention quickly turned to rookie fifth-round pick Caelen Carson, who was held out of the preseason finale against the Los Angeles Chargers and instructed to be ready to start in Bland’s place with just 15 days’ notice.
Despite the unfortunate timing and seriousness of Bland’s injury, Carson stepped up and delivered a strong performance in the Cowboys’ season-opening win over the Cleveland Browns.
“I thought he did a great job,” defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer said. “The moment wasn’t too big for him. Sometimes we gave him help, sometimes we didn’t. He’s tough, competitive, and loves to play. For his first game, I thought he was fantastic.”
In his debut, Carson allowed a 55.6 passer rating, the third-lowest among rookie cornerbacks in Week 1, and recorded two pass breakups. When matched against Cleveland’s top receiver Amari Cooper, Carson allowed just two catches for 16 yards.
“He prepared all offseason,” said starting nickel cornerback Jourdan Lewis. “He did exactly what we expected him to do. He embraced the moment and played as he was taught.”
“He’s a baller. I’m glad he got that experience in his first game, and I hope it’s a stepping stone for the rest of the season.”
Though Carson’s performance was praised, the rookie acknowledged he still had room for improvement.
“I know I can do better,” Carson said. “I left some plays out there and didn’t fully take advantage of all my opportunities. Game one was good, but I need to improve.”
The 22-year-old from Waldorf, Md., played in 36 games at Wake Forest, tallying 92 tackles and 26 pass deflections over four seasons.
Veteran players know that pressure falls on the group when a starter gets injured. But with Bland out for at least the first four games due to his foot injury, Carson’s early success is easing the pressure on the team.
“Of course it takes the pressure off,” Lewis said. “Coach Al Harris wanted him, and he drafted him because he saw his potential. It’s great to see him already believing in his talent.”
When Bland, also a fifth-round pick, stepped into a starting role as a rookie in 2022, he impressed with his focus and dedication. Now, two seasons later, Carson is following in his footsteps with a similar mindset.
“You want to make a good first impression,” Carson said. “But it’s just one game. I appreciate the praise, but I’ve got more work to do. The key now is consistency, to come back in game two and perform just as well.”