Introduction
DaRon Bland’s journey from a late-round draft pick to NFL stardom is the ultimate underdog story. Selected in the fifth round (167th overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys, Bland quickly rose to prominence through his instincts, ball-hawking ability, and uncanny knack for pick-sixes.
1. Draft Day & College Background
College Career
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Sacramento State (2017–2020): Bland began his collegiate career at Sacramento State, earning first-team All-Big Sky honors in 2019 with standout defensive stats, including interceptions and tackles for loss.
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Transfer to Fresno State (2021): Seeking greater exposure, he transferred to Fresno State, where he continued to demonstrate solid ball skills with 2 interceptions and 5 passes defended over 13 games.
NFL Draft: A Hidden Gem
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Despite strong ability, Bland flew under the radar and wasn’t invited to the NFL Combine. The Cowboys quietly scouted and invited him late, giving them a strategic advantage.
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Pro Football Network notes he was drafted 167th overall in Round 5 of the 2022 NFL Draft. Analysts dubbed the pick a massive steal.
2. ESPN Coverage & Public Profile
ESPN maintains a comprehensive profile on Bland, listing his height (6’0″), weight (197 lbs), college (Fresno State), and draft details including round and pick number.
His career stats are detailed season by season:
| Season | Interceptions | Pick-Six TDs |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 5 | 0 |
| 2023 | 9 | 5 |
| 2024 | 0 (injured) | 0 |
3. Breakout 2023 Season: Pick-Six History
Record-Breaking Feat
In 2023, Bland shattered expectations. He led the NFL with 9 interceptions and set an NFL single-season record with 5 interceptions returned for touchdowns—tying Ken Houston’s record for most defensive scores in a year.
Game Highlights
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Week 1 vs. Giants: First career pick-six returned 22 yards.
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Week 4 vs. Patriots: Two interceptions, including a 54-yard pick-six.
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Subsequent Weeks: Continued his streak with pick-sixes vs. Rams, Panthers, and Commanders.
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This performance earned him NFC Defensive Player of the Week and Month honors.
4. Reddit & Fan Buzz
While this overview doesn’t include direct Reddit quotes, Bland’s explosive rise is widely celebrated across NFL and Cowboys fan communities. From discussions highlighting his late-draft status to appreciating his pick-six prowess, fans hail him as one of the most electrifying defenders in the league.
5. Jersey & Merchandise
Interested fans can find official DaRon Bland jerseys, t-shirts, and memorabilia at the NFL Shop—including limited-edition and autographed items.
6. Contract Extension: Reward for Performance
On August 31, 2025, Bland signed a four-year, $92 million extension with $50 million guaranteed—making him the sixth-highest-paid cornerback in the league at an average of $23 million per year.
This came despite a below-par 2024 season, where he missed games due to injury and recorded no interceptions.
7. Is He ‘Good’? Evaluating His Value
Absolutely—and then some. Bland’s 2023 campaign solidified him as an All-Pro talent. He was named First-Team All-Pro and earned a Pro Bowl selection.
Despite the setback in 2024 due to injury, the Cowboys’ investment in a massive extension speaks volumes about his long-term value.
8. Draft to Stardom: A Summary Journey
From Sacramento State to a late-round pick, Bland’s journey is defined by underestimation—followed by explosive success:
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Under-the-radar draftee with limited pre-draft buzz.
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Immediate impact rookie, leading the Cowboys in interceptions.
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Historic 2023, earning league-wide acclaim.
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Injury-plagued 2024, yet respected enough to earn a major contract.
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Cemented star entering a new, lucrative chapter with the Cowboys. DaRon Bland NFL Draft.
FAQs
1. What round and pick was DaRon Bland drafted in?
He was selected in the 5th round, 167th overall, in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys.
2. How many interceptions did Bland record in 2023?
He recorded 9 interceptions, leading the NFL that season.
3. Did Bland set any NFL records?
Yes—he set the NFL single-season record for interceptions returned for touchdowns (5) in 2023, tied with Ken Houston for defensive touchdowns.
4. What is Bland’s current contract status?
On August 31, 2025, he signed a four-year, $92 million contract extension with $50 million guaranteed, making him the sixth-highest-paid CB in the league.
5. Where can I buy a DaRon Bland jersey?
Official jerseys and memorabilia are available from the NFL Shop, including autographed items and limited editions.
6. Is Bland considered elite at his position?
Yes—his 2023 performance earned him First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors, and his contract reflects his elite status. DaRon Bland NFL Draft.
Conclusion
DaRon Bland ESPN profile: Showcases his physical attributes, college, and career stats.
Reddit buzz: Highlights his underdog-to-All-Pro narrative across fan communities.
Jersey availability: Official merchandise available for fans.
Career arc: From overlooked 5th-round pick to record-breaking cornerback.
2025 contract: Confirms his long-term future and elite status.
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