The Dallas Cowboys recently secured their defensive line by finalizing a lucrative contract with Osa Odighizuwa, agreeing to terms on March 4, 2025. The defensive tackle’s new deal is reportedly worth $80 million over four years, which includes $58 million guaranteed along with a generous signing bonus of $20 million. These negotiations unfolded just hours before the NFL's franchise tag deadline, allowing the Cowboys to sidestep tagging Odighizuwa.
Odighizuwa's representation, led by agent Sam Leaf Ireifej, confirmed the contract's details. This contract marks a significant financial commitment by the Cowboys, especially when set against the backdrop of prior restructuring efforts to create space under the salary cap. Alongside securing Odighizuwa, Dallas also restructured the contract of star receiver CeeDee Lamb and struck up a one-year deal with special teams standout C.J. Goodwin, collectively creating $20 million more room on their cap.
Since being drafted as the 75th overall pick during the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Odighizuwa has rapidly become one of the standout players on the Cowboys' defense. Last season, he shone brightly, recording career-highs of 4.5 sacks and 47 total tackles. His efforts on the field were integral to his team's defense, as he tied with star pass rusher Micah Parsons for the club lead, both notching 23 quarterback hits—a statistic reflective of their pursuit and pressure capabilities against rival quarterbacks.
The decision to prioritize retaining Odighizuwa aligns with the Cowboys' defensive strategy, especially as they face challenges managing the run game. This need for improvement solidifies under Matt Eberflus, the newly appointed defensive coordinator under first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer. Both coaches face the task of refining the team’s defensive strategy to protect their ends and tighten the pressure up the middle on opposing offenses.
Odighizuwa's return to the Cowboys is especially pertinent as the team faces 20 unrestricted free agents this offseason, including notable names like defensive ends DeMarcus Lawrence and Chauncey Golston. The looming uncertainties surrounding these free agents make Odighizuwa's contract all the more valuable for continuity and stability.
The combination of Odighizuwa and fellow lineman Mazi Smith, the Cowboys' first-round pick from 2023, is poised to strengthen the defensive line significantly. Together, they could form a formidable pairing intended to bolster the club's ability to contain the run and improve overall defensive statistics.
Osa Odighizuwa's newfound deal exemplifies the Cowboys' long-term plans and commitment to building around talents who are not only defensive stalwarts but also have the potential to become key figures as the team seeks to reclaim its status as one of the top competitors within the NFL. His performance, along with the innovations of the new coaching staff, indicates Dallas is gearing up for aggressive defensive gameplay as they prepare for the upcoming seasons.
Despite these contractual successes, there remains uncertainty with player movements as the Cowboys navigate free agency and strategize for the future. Nevertheless, locking down Odighizuwa is viewed as pivotal by management, showcasing their dedication to enhancing roster depth and performance heading forward.