Wed Mar 05 17:30:00 UTC 2025: **Cowboys Lock Up Defensive Tackle Osa Odighizuwa with $80 Million Contract**
FRISCO, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys have secured one of their key defensive players, agreeing to a four-year, $80 million contract with defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa. The deal, which includes $58 million guaranteed and a $20 million signing bonus, keeps Odighizuwa off the free agency market and avoids the need to use the franchise tag.
The 26-year-old Odighizuwa, a third-round pick in 2021, had a breakout 2024 season, recording a career-high 4.5 sacks, 47 tackles, and 54 pressures. His consistent performance and durability (67 straight games played, 63 starts) made him a highly sought-after free agent.
This marks the latest significant long-term investment by the Cowboys in a homegrown player, following similar deals for quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb last year. The team is now expected to focus on negotiating a contract extension with star pass rusher Micah Parsons.
The Cowboys restructured Lamb’s contract, freeing up an additional $20 million in salary cap space, providing flexibility in their negotiations. While several other defensive players, including DeMarcus Lawrence and Jourdan Lewis, are set to become free agents, Odighizuwa’s deal represents a key first step in retaining their defensive core under new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. The team met with agents of other players at the NFL Scouting Combine to explore further contract extensions.
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