Dallas Cowboys have 2 players named in ESPN’s top 50 free agents list
As the 2025 NFL offseason approaches, the Dallas Cowboys are facing critical roster decisions, with two of their key players being recognized among ESPN’s top 50 free agents. Defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa and defensive end Chauncey Golston have both made the list, highlighting their value on the open market and raising questions about their future with the team.
Key Players Hitting Free Agency
Osa Odighizuwa
Odighizuwa, a former third-round pick out of UCLA, has developed into one of the Cowboys’ most consistent interior defensive linemen. Over the past season, he played a crucial role in solidifying the Cowboys’ run defense and generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks. His ability to disrupt plays in the trenches has made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their defensive line.
Given his age and production, Odighizuwa is expected to command significant interest in free agency. The Cowboys must decide whether they can afford to re-sign him or risk losing a key piece of their defensive front.
Chauncey Golston
Golston, another defensive contributor, has steadily improved since being drafted by Dallas. His versatility as both a defensive end and an interior rusher has provided the Cowboys with much-needed depth. Last season, he recorded career-high numbers in sacks and tackles for loss, proving to be a valuable rotational player.
Like Odighizuwa, Golston’s ability to create pressure and defend against the run makes him a sought-after asset. If the Cowboys fail to retain him, he could land a lucrative contract elsewhere.
Cowboys’ Free Agency Challenges
The Cowboys enter the offseason with multiple roster concerns and salary cap constraints, making it difficult to retain all of their key free agents. In addition to Odighizuwa and Golston, the team has 22 players set to become unrestricted free agents, including cornerback Jourdan Lewis and backup quarterback Cooper Rush.
The Cowboys front office, led by owner Jerry Jones and general manager Stephen Jones, will need to make tough financial decisions. With contract extensions looming for key players like CeeDee Lamb and Micah Parsons, Dallas may struggle to keep some of their free agents without restructuring existing deals or making roster cuts.
Potential Replacements and Offseason Strategy
If the Cowboys are unable to retain Odighizuwa and Golston, they will likely explore the 2025 NFL Draft and the free-agent market for replacements. Defensive line depth has been an area of focus for the team, and losing two key contributors could force them to prioritize acquiring new talent.
The Cowboys could also look internally for solutions, relying on younger players like Mazi Smith and Sam Williams to step up in expanded roles. However, the loss of proven veterans would put additional pressure on the coaching staff to develop replacements quickly.
Final Thoughts
As free agency approaches, the Cowboys face a crucial decision on whether to retain Odighizuwa and Golston or let them walk. Both players have played vital roles in the team’s defensive success, and their departure could create significant gaps in the roster.
With financial constraints limiting their options, the Cowboys’ front office must navigate a difficult offseason to remain competitive in the NFC. Fans will be eagerly watching to see if the team can retain its key free agents or if they will be forced to rebuild parts of their defensive unit.