The Dallas Cowboys made a significant move ahead of the franchise tag deadline, securing defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa with a four-year, $80 million contract. This deal includes a $20 million signing bonus and $58 million guaranteed, positioning him as the 15th-highest paid interior defensive lineman in terms of average annual value, while his guarantee is the second-highest at his position.

Odighizuwa's performance in 2024 was impressive, with 60 quarterback pressures, the second-most among defensive tackles, and a pressure rate of 12.3%, surpassing even Super Bowl LIX champion Jalen Carter. The Cowboys’ new defensive coordinator, Matt Eberflus, emphasized Odighizuwa's value to their defensive strategy, noting his importance in the three-technique position. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer also praised Odighizuwa as a key component of the team’s success.