Cowboys have begun talks with soon-to-be free agent Osa Odighizuwa

The Cowboys have initiated contract discussions with defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa’s agent, according to executive vice president Stephen Jones, who spoke with The Dallas Morning News’ David Moore on Sunday.

Odighizuwa is set to hit free agency next month and is coming off a strong season, recording a career-high 4.5 sacks and 23 quarterback hits. If he reaches the open market, he is expected to generate significant interest.

“We have had negotiations with Osa,” Jones said. “I just think Osa is a really good football player. He’s an important piece.”

While the Cowboys have used the franchise tag 11 times on eight different players, they are unlikely to use it on Odighizuwa, as it would cost $23.4 million for 2025. However, the transition tag—at a more manageable $18.9 million—remains an option.

“It’s a tool,” Jones noted. “It’s something we haven’t ruled out using. We’ll just see how this week goes and how our visits [with his agent] go.”

In addition to Odighizuwa, the Cowboys are also looking to retain cornerback Jourdan Lewis and running back Rico Dowdle. Meanwhile, defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence’s future remains uncertain after playing just four games last season, though the team is open to bringing him back if he chooses to continue his career.