A franchise tag would guarantee Odighizuwa a $25.1 million salary for 2025

The Dallas Cowboys intend to place a franchise tag on defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa if they cannot agree to a long-term contract with the defensive tackle by Tuesday, reports ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.

NFL teams have until 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4 to place a franchise tag on their free-agent players.

A franchise tag would guarantee Odighizuwa a $25.1 million salary for 2025, the average of the five highest salaries from last season at his position. Chris Jones of the Kansas City Chiefs is the league’s highest-paid defensive tackle at $34.85 million for 2025, according to Spotrac. Fourteen players at the position have an average annual salary of at least $20 million, the Dallas Morning News reports.

Odighizuwa, who will turn 27 before the 2025 campaign, compiled 4.5 sacks and 47 tackles in 17 games last season. He was credited with five tackles for loss and 22 quarterback hits.

In his four seasons, Odighizuwa has not missed a game, playing in all 67 for which he was available with 63 starts. He has averaged 3.4 sacks, 44 tackles and seven tackles for loss during his career. Odighizuwa was the Cowboys’ third-round selection (No. 75 overall) in the 2021 NFL Draft out of UCLA, where he played four years.

Dallas last used the franchise tag in 2023 on Tony Pollard for $10.1 million. He left via free agency before last season, signing with the Tennessee Titans.

In addition to Odighizuwa, the Cowboys are also attempting to work out new deals with defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence and linebacker Micah Parsons. The team will likely lose Lawrence, who expects to get more in free agency than what the Cowboys can offer, according to the Dallas Morning News.

Meanwhile, Dallas has a year to work out a new deal with Parsons after picking up his fifth-year option for $21.32 million. At the NFL scouting combine on Friday, new Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer said negotiations are “a two-way street.” The team reportedly began “general” contract talks with the star outside linebacker this week.

Osa Odighizuwa has quietly emerged as one of the Dallas Cowboys’ most reliable defensive playmakers over the past few seasons. Since being drafted in the third round in 2021, he has consistently improved, becoming a key presence on the defensive line. His ability to generate interior pressure and disrupt opposing quarterbacks has been crucial for the Cowboys’ pass rush. While star edge rushers often steal the spotlight, Odighizuwa’s impact in the trenches has been undeniable, making him an essential part of the team’s defensive success.

In recent seasons, Odighizuwa has taken his game to the next level, showing noticeable growth in both pass-rushing and run defense. His quick first step and relentless motor have helped him rack up sacks and quarterback hits, proving he’s more than just a space-filler in the middle. Additionally, his ability to shed blocks and stuff the run has improved significantly, making him a well-rounded defensive tackle. The Cowboys have leaned on his versatility, using him in different alignments to exploit matchups and create chaos for opposing offenses.

Beyond his on-field production, Odighizuwa has also developed into a vital leader for the Cowboys’ defensive front. As a young player, he has already earned the trust of coaches and teammates, bringing energy and intensity to the unit. His ability to anchor the interior and open opportunities for edge rushers like Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence has been a game-changer. Without a dominant presence inside, the Cowboys’ aggressive defensive scheme wouldn’t be nearly as effective, and Odighizuwa has been instrumental in keeping that balance intact.

Heading into the next season, Odighizuwa’s role is only expected to grow, making his contract situation even more critical. The Cowboys’ defense thrives on pressure, and having a disruptive force in the middle is key to their success. If he continues his upward trajectory, he could solidify himself as one of the top defensive tackles in the league. Whether the Cowboys lock him up long-term or rely on the franchise tag, one thing is clear—Odighizuwa is a foundational piece of their defense, and losing him would be a massive setback.