The Dallas Cowboys successfully avoided NFL free agency chaos by securing star defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to a substantial new contract on March 4, 2025. The Cowboys agreed to terms on a four-year deal worth $80 million, which includes $58 million guaranteed and a signing bonus of $20 million. This strategic move came just hours before the deadline for clubs to apply the franchise tag on players, sparing Odighizuwa from potentially hitting the open market.
The agreement was confirmed by Odighizuwa's agent, Sam Leaf Ireifej, and is viewed as another step for the Cowboys to solidify their defensive lineup under new coaching leadership. Following Odighizuwa's commendable statistics—recording 4.5 sacks and 47 tackles in the preceding season—the team recognized his value and chose not to use the franchise tag, which would have cost them approximately $25 million.
Odighizuwa’s performance has consistently improved since he was drafted by Dallas as the 75th overall pick out of UCLA in 2021. The 26-year-old defensive tackle has not missed a single game, achieving 63 starts out of 67 played. His numbers reflect significant contributions: he ranks second on the team for quarterback pressures and has established himself as one of the premier defensive tackles.
Currently, Odighizuwa's contract will allocate $6.25 million of the salary cap for the Cowboys' 2025 season, facilitating additional financial flexibility for the franchise. The Cowboys have demonstrated commitment to developing talent from within, echoing recent big-money extensions including quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, who signed for $240 million and $136 million, respectively.
Executive vice president Stephen Jones emphasized Odighizuwa’s value as “a homegrown guy who we think is a really good football player.” This comment highlights the Cowboys' transition intentions under their new coach, Brian Schottenheimer, and defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. Eberflus, who previously coached the Chicago Bears, is tasked with revamping a defensive unit ranked 28th overall and 31st in scoring defense during the previous season.
Odighizuwa isn’t the only player whose contract situation is under scrutiny. Star pass rusher Micah Parsons is also up for consideration, entering the final season of his rookie contract—much speculation surrounds his potential to become the highest-paid defensive player ever. Parsons, who led the Cowboys' defense not only as their best pass rusher but as one of the league's elite, will likely demand a significant extension, raising questions about the Cowboys' cap strategies moving forward.
Prior to the agreement with Odighizuwa, the Cowboys were negotiating with several potential free agents, including edge rusher DeMarcus Lawrence and others. Having options available, the retention of Odighizuwa is significant for the club as they navigate free agency's opening, which officially commences on March 12, 2025, following the “legal tampering period.”
With Odighizuwa's deal now finalized, attention shifted back to how the Cowboys will approach upcoming negotiations. The $20 million created by restructuring Lamb’s contract showcases the team's intent to remain active and competitive as they look to strengthen their roster—and the franchise hopes to build on present successes with continued solid performances and strategic player acquisitions.
It’s clear the Cowboys are prioritizing retention and expansion of leadership within their ranks, laying the groundwork for what they hope will translate to substantial success next season. With Odighizuwa back, combined with potentially bringing Parsons back under favorable conditions, the Cowboys are gearing up to solidify their defensive line. The franchise's decision-making approach, including the prevention of losing key players to free agency, should be closely observed as the new NFL year begins.