Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Cowboys Could Trade Defensive Starter Despite $80 Million Extension

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Mar 11, 2026 12:54 PM ET

Last year the Dallas Cowboys retained starting defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa with a four-year, $80 million contract extension. But after barely improving in 2025, the Cowboys might be inclined to move him.

According to CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones, NFL teams are "keeping an eye" on Dallas' plans for Odighizuwa. Per the report, those teams believe that they can trade for him if the price is right.

"Teams are keeping an eye on what Dallas may do with Osa Odighizuwa, sources say. The Cowboys signed him to a 4-year, $80M contract last year, and teams believe he can now be traded for," Jones wrote.

Teams are keeping an eye on what Dallas may do with Osa Odighizuwa, sources say. The Cowboys signed him to a 4-year, $80M contract last year, and teams believe he can now be traded for.
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) March 10, 2026

The Cowboys have something of a glut of starting caliber defensive tackles right now. In addition to Odighizuwa, they have Pro Bowler Quinnen Williams, who they acquired via a trade with the Jets in the middle of the season, along with Kenny Clark, who they received in the infamous Micah Parsons trade last year.

As much as the Cowboys might like to have three starting caliber defensive tackles, affording them is a very different matter.

Nov 17, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (7) is sacked by Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Kenny Clark (95) and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams (92) during the first half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Fan Response

Cowboys fans are loathe to part with Odighizuwa, regardless of his contract status. Many fans believe that he's one of the best players on the team and one of the best at his position and would rather not see him go as a cost-cutting measure.

"I’m sure Jerry will be the charity for Green Bay again and gift them another top DLineman," one fan mocked, referencing the Parsons trade.

"So on brand for Cowboys to take a strength and turn it into a weakness. Trade Osa, Clark is 30 yrs old and likely gone soon. Hope this is all smoke," another remarked.

"I’d rather keep Osa, he probably wouldn’t get us more than a 4th or 5th round pick. It’s not worth it," a third said.

Will the Cowboys move off of Odighizuwa, or is the rumor just smoke and mirrors?

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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