DaRon Bland etched his name in NFL history by securing his fifth pick-six of the season. The 63-yard interception return for a touchdown not only solidified his place in the record books but also surpassed the shared record held with Eric Allen, Ken Houston, and Jim Kearney.
Who is DaRon Bland?
DaRon Bland, born on July 12, 1999, grew up in Modesto, California, and attended Central Catholic High School. His exceptional performance earned him the title of Valley Oak League Defensive Player of the Year during his senior year.
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Beginning at Sacramento State, Bland’s standout junior season garnered him first-team All-Big Sky Conference honors. Following the COVID-19 pandemic-induced disruptions, he entered the NCAA Transfer Portal, eventually landing at Fresno State.
Selected in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys, Bland made an immediate impact. His rookie season showcased notable interceptions, including his first against Carson Wentz on October 2, 2022.
Bland’s sophomore season in 2023 has been nothing short of spectacular. Notably, on October 29, he returned an interception from Matthew Stafford, marking his third pick-six of the year and setting the Cowboys’ single-season record. The streak continued on November 19 against the Carolina Panthers, where he tied the NFL single-season record with his fourth pick-six, earning him NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors.
The historic moment arrived on November 23, 2023, during the win over the Washington Commanders. Bland intercepted a pass from Sam Howell and returned it for his fifth pick-six of the season, breaking the NFL single-season record.
As the Cowboys triumphed 45-10, DaRon Bland’s record-breaking performance not only showcased his exceptional skills but also solidified his status as a defensive force to be reckoned with in the NFL.
