The Dallas Cowboys were active during the 2025 NFL scouting combine, engaging in crucial negotiations with key players and strategizing for the upcoming season. Notably, talks regarding defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa have commenced, with the team considering a franchise tag that could cost about $25.1 million.

Additionally, the Cowboys aim to retain other free agents like Jourdan Lewis and Rico Dowdle, while assessing the future of DeMarcus Lawrence, whose potential departure opens the door for a restructured defense. With Dak Prescott secured, discussions arise about drafting a quarterback, as Trey Lance's return seems unlikely. The void left by Zack Martin's retirement is also a pressing concern, with confidence in Brock Hoffman and Cooper Beebe to fill in. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer, endorsed by peers like Pete Carroll, is set to lead the Cowboys into a pivotal offseason.

The Dallas Cowboys are considering placing a franchise tag on defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa if a long-term deal isn't reached by the March 4 deadline. This tag would secure him a salary of $25.1 million for the 2025 season, based on last year's highest-paid defensive tackles. Odighizuwa recorded 4.5 sacks and 47 tackles last season, showcasing his durability as he has not missed a game in four seasons. The Cowboys last used the franchise tag on Tony Pollard in 2023, who has since left for the Titans. Alongside Odighizuwa, negotiations are ongoing with key players like DeMarcus Lawrence and Micah Parsons.

The Dallas Cowboys are poised to place a franchise tag on defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, pending a long-term contract agreement before the March 4 deadline. If tagged, Odighizuwa will receive a salary of $25.1 million for the 2025 season. He recorded 4.5 sacks and 47 tackles last season while maintaining a consistent presence in the lineup, having played all 67 games since being drafted in 2021.

With the franchise tag being utilized rarely by the Cowboys, last seen on Tony Pollard in 2023, the team is also in discussions with DeMarcus Lawrence and Micah Parsons for contract extensions. Lawrence is likely to depart for a more lucrative deal in free agency, while Parsons is securing his fifth-year option, indicating the complex dynamics of the Cowboys' roster management as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The Dallas Cowboys appear to be at a crossroads as multiple key defensive players enter free agency. While the franchise has historically been conservative in off-season moves, they now face a pivotal moment with players like defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa and veteran DeMarcus Lawrence seeking new contracts. Lawrence expressed his desire to remain in Dallas, understanding the complexities involved in contract negotiations, especially considering he missed significant time due to injury last season.

Currently, the Cowboys possess just over $3.8 million in cap space, but smart restructures of existing contracts could yield up to $58 million. This financial maneuverability raises questions about whether the Cowboys will choose to aggressively retain their core players or explore adding new talent from outside. Time will tell if Dallas will adapt its approach and secure its crucial defensive assets ahead of the upcoming season.