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 facing a crucial decision regarding defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, as they plan to apply the franchise tag if a long-term deal isn’t reached before the impending deadline. While recent negotiations have intensified, the prospect of Odighizuwa hitting free agency could significantly impact the Cowboys' defensive line strategy.

Odighizuwa has emerged as one of the premier defensive tackles in this year's free-agent class, boasting impressive stats from the previous season, including 47 tackles and 4.5 sacks. His consistent performance over 67 games, along with his importance to the Cowboys’ defensive scheme, makes him a key asset that they are keen to retain. The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly eyeing Odighizuwa as an ideal fit for their roster, particularly to enhance their interior pass rush, which has been a longstanding concern.

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 are at a crucial juncture as they consider the future of star defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, coming off a breakout season where he recorded 60 pressures, the second-most among defensive tackles. Owner Jerry Jones has expressed a strong desire to retain Odighizuwa, with plans to tag him if a long-term deal doesn’t materialize by the March 4 deadline. Playing under the franchise tag, he would earn a guaranteed $25,122,000 in 2025. New head coach Brian Schottenheimer praised Odighizuwa, calling him a vital part of their defense, highlighting his impressive stats of 4.5 sacks and 47 combined tackles in 2024. This decision could set the tone for the Cowboys' offseason strategy.