Dallas Cowboys Bolster Offensive Line, Sign Hakeem Adeniji

DALLAS — April 17, 2025

The Dallas Cowboys are continuing to strengthen their roster ahead of the 2025 NFL season, announcing the signing of versatile offensive lineman Hakeem Adeniji. The move adds depth and experience to a Cowboys offensive line that has undergone several changes in recent years and is aiming to provide better protection for quarterback Dak Prescott.

Adeniji, 26, brings valuable NFL experience to the Cowboys’ front five. Originally drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the sixth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, the former Kansas Jayhawk has shown the ability to play multiple positions along the offensive line, including both guard and tackle. His versatility and durability made him a reliable option during his time with the Bengals and later the Minnesota Vikings.

During his four-year NFL career, Adeniji has appeared in over 40 games with multiple starts, including during Cincinnati’s run to Super Bowl LVI. He has proven himself capable of stepping in during high-pressure situations, making him a valuable asset for a Dallas team that knows the importance of depth in the trenches.

For the Cowboys, the signing is a strategic move to shore up an offensive line that has dealt with injuries and inconsistency in recent seasons. With long-time stalwarts like Tyron Smith no longer in the fold and younger players still developing, adding a seasoned veteran like Adeniji offers both insurance and competition across the line.

Head coach Mike McCarthy praised the acquisition, saying, “Hakeem brings flexibility, toughness, and experience. We’ve seen what he can do in both pass protection and the run game, and we believe he’ll make our group stronger overall.”

Adeniji is expected to compete for a backup role initially, but with the physical toll of an NFL season, he could be called upon sooner rather than later. His presence could also help mentor some of the Cowboys’ younger linemen, including 2024 first-round pick Tyler Guyton.

As the Cowboys look to return to the playoffs and make a deeper postseason push, moves like this signal a focus on building a solid foundation—starting in the trenches. With Hakeem Adeniji now in the mix, Dallas is one step closer to putting together an offensive line that can withstand the rigors of the NFC East and beyond.